2003 Cobra Shock Install

The following pictures are from the installation of a set 2003 Cobra Bilstein shocks in 1998 Mustang Cobra with a 1999 IRS installed. I purchased the pair of shocks from Ford Parts Network for $64.00 plus shipping. These are the coupe spec shocks and should work well with my Steeda Sport Springs. The coupe shocks are valved for springs with a rate of 600 in/lb. The Steeda springs have a variable rate from 500-600 in/lb.

1. The first step is to jack the rear of the car up and remove the rear wheels.

2. Here are pictures of the shocks right out of the box. The shocks don't come with replacement nuts for mounting the top of the shock. You must reuse your old ones. https://pp-replica.tradevisitstips.com/ .

2003 Cobra Coupe Rear Shock	Bottom Close Up

3. The next step is to remove the trunk panels to gain access to the top of the shock. Use 2 wrenches to remove the nuts. One wrench to turn the nut and another wrench on top to keep the shaft from turning.

Trunk	Close up of top shock mount

4. Once the top nut is off. Remove the bottom shock bolt

Old shock installed	Bottom shock bolt	Shock Removed

5. Here are some comparison shots of the old and new shocks.

03 Shock on top	Close up of both shocks

5. Install is the reverse of the removal. Slide the upper part of the shock into the upper mount. Put the lower bolt in and partially tighten. Use a jack under the control arm to pust the shock up all the way. Tighten the nut on the top mount. Torque the lower mounting nut to spec. Put the wheel back on. Do the other side. Once both sides are done, lower the car and put the trunk panels back on.

6. Impressions. The shocks do a great job of controlling the Steeda springs. The bounce I used to get is gone from the rear without being harsh. These are also a great bargain. Bilstein sells these shocks for 70$ each normally. I would recommend these shocks to anyone with a rear spring rate around 600 in/lb.