Tool for tightening tubular shock link plug...

clifforddward

clifforddward

Senior Member
Yesterday I started replacement of my shocks and related hardware...In the course of shock link installation I found it difficult to tighten the shock link plug to my satisfaction...Ideally I'd like to compress the shock link spring a bit but did not feel doing so with a regular screwdriver was going to work.

With a trip to my local Northern Tool location I was able to obtain a 5/8" hex key (allen wrench). A bit of work at my grinder and VOILA!, I now have a large right angle tool that will allow me to easily tighten down the shock link plug.

Another useful handmade tool joins others in my Model A tool drawer!
 

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I checked Northern Tool for an individual "5/8" right angle allen wrench" and found none. Do you know the part number?
 
Northern Tool calls it "Bondhus JUMBO Ball End Single L-Wrench — 5/8in., Model# BL 5/8"...Item #2515718

I think one might find a more economical 5/8" Allen wrench via eBay or the like...I was impatient and wanted to get one same day so I could move on with my shock replacement project.
 
I have a whole set of drag link sockets. One of the smallest of the set fits the OEM type shock links. The larger ones fit the drag link and tie rod ends.
 
I've had success, when doing tie rod/drag link ends, fitting a pair of needle nose pliers into the plug and then opening them so the tips are pressing outward on the shell. Then you either rotate the pliers by hand to tighten, or increase your leverage by placing the pivot point of the pliers in a crescent wrench and rotating that while you keep the pliers opened with the other hand.

Seems like this would work for shock links as well, I guess I'll find out when I assemble mine later this year.
 
Or alternatively alexiskai, you could always borrow this tool from me...I could give it to you when I return your frame spreader!
 
I use the same tool as jwilliams, it works great.

I also installed a small magnet on the bottom to keep it in the socket.
 
I appears to be too wide for the shock link. However, you could grind off the ends of the slot to fit. I am not sure if the tool is too thick to fit the shock link slot. Maybe Jwiliam81 will comment, as he said he uses it on shock links - did he need to modify it to work?

Rusty
 
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