DK-818989F Instructions
Parts Included
1. Gather tools needed for the job
a. Gather tools needed for the job:
- Socket Wrench
- Breaker bar
- 14 mm wrench
- 24 mm socket
- 22 mm socket
- 15 mm socket
- 12 mm socket
- 5 mm allen socket
- Pliers
- Torque wrench
2. Raise vehicle
a. Safely raise the vehicle by the frame.
b. Remove the front tires.
3. Sway bar end link hardware removal
a. Remove the hardware attaching the sway bar end link to the lower control arm.
4. Tie rod removal
a. Remove the cotter pin and nut attaching the tie rod end to the spindle.
b. Separate the tie rod end from the spindle and move it to the side.
5. Shock hardware removal
a. Remove the lower shock mounting hardware.
6. Shock hardware removal (continued)
a. Remove the upper shock mounting hardware and remove the shock from the vehicle.
7. Shock installation
a. Install the DK shock into the coil bucket and slide the lower eyelet over the lower control arm stud.
b. Torque the upper hardware to 35 ft-lbs.
8. Shock installation (continued)
a. Torque the lower shock hardware to 195 ft-lbs.
9. Tie rod installation
a. Place the tie rod end into the spindle and install the nut.
b. Torque the nut to 89 ft-lbs and install a new cotter pin.
10. Sway bar end link installation
a. Align the sway bar end link with the lower control arm and insert the bolt.
b. Torque this hardware to 110 ft-lbs.
11. Insert installation
a. Remove the frontmost splash shield and frame plug directly in front of the shock mount.
b. Place the included insert into the frame. Ensure the rounded ear points toward the front of the vehicle.
c. Note: The insert must be placed with the rounded ear first. It can then be rotated to sit properly in the frame. A bolt can be used to assist with installation.
12. Reservoir bracket installation
a. Place the reservoir into the bracket while off the vehicle and lightly snug the bolts.
b. Note: This process is most important for the driver side. The passenger side can be installed in the clamps while on the vehicle.
13. Reservoir bracket installation (continued)
a. Place the reservoir bracket over the previously installed insert and torque both bolts to 19 ft-lbs.
14. Reservoir orientation
a. Once the bracket is attached to the frame, rotate the reservoir to ensure the hose does not contact the frame and the Dirt King sticker faces straight outward.
b. Torque both reservoir clamp bolts to 12 ft-lbs once orientation is finalized.
15. Review work and repeat on opposite side
a. Inspect all components to ensure they are properly installed and have adequate clearance.
b. Reinstall the wheels and torque the lug nuts to the wheel manufacturer’s specifications.
c. Have the vehicle aligned at a certified shop. If equipped with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), ensure recalibration is performed.
DCA Series User Guide
** Discover the full potential of your Dirt King shocks with this detailed guide. We’ll cover everything you need to know about the Dual Compression Adjusters (DCA), preload settings, and the impact of these adjustments on your vehicle’s handling, ride quality, and off-road performance.
View Guide
For warnings and disclaimers, visit Dirt King Disclaimer.
