Parts needed to replace front shocks in 2002 Camaro?

[theKiwi]

I posted this here http://www.ls1.com/forums/showthread...02#post2603102 but wonder if it didn't get noticed since I added to a "sticky" thread...

I've read through the above thread and this page http://www.ls1howto.com/index.php?article=6 about replacing the shocks...

I have a 2002 V6 Camaro that has 112,000 miles and so is (probably more than) due for shocks which I'm planning to tackle myself.

First question is in the parts needed, apart from the new shocks. This is clearly the new top mount which Tenneco/Monroe call "Strut-Mate Strut Mounting Kit"

http://catalog.monroe.com/catalogPar...dStatus=ACTIVE

costs about $75 each for left and right.

What's not so clear is what Tenneco/Monroe call the "Strut-Mate Coil Spring Insulator"

http://catalog.monroe.com/catalogPar...dStatus=ACTIVE

$16 each. Are these a part of the top mount, or are they something separate that I need to also replace? I don't see these items in the photos on the HowTo page.

Is it likely that I need to replace the Top Mount, AND whatever that second part is at the same time, or just the shocks?

http://catalog.monroe.com/catalogPar...dStatus=ACTIVE

which "seem" to include new bottom insulators?

Thanks!!

Roger

[peterlawl84]

I just replaced my shocks this past wkend, and would highly suggest buying the "Strut-Mate Strut Mounting Kit", as my passenger side was so corroded that I had to drill it out (I will be replacing it with a new one this wkend).
The spring isolator sits inside the "Strut-Mate Strut Mounting Kit." Replacing it is up to you, wouldn't hurt to replace them, but I ended up reusing mine.
I reused my bottom isolators, as the koni's did not come with new ones.

Also use anti-seize on the top of the shock prior to sliding the top mount and spring isolator on to make it easier to remove next time around.