Question on Rear Shock Absorber Installation 99Runner

[Psuparrothead]

After 183,000 miles, I heard a clunking coming from my 99 4Runner last night. This morning, it turns out that the shock absorber on the rear passenger side had rusted out and was hanging on by only the lower bolt.

My questions are as follows:

I purchased a new shock absorber and have installed it. The bottom is no problem at all (17mm socket in case anyone needs to know). The top, however, is difficult to reach. I was able to get a 14mm deep well socket on it and I have snugged it down so at least 1 inch of thread is above it. I'm mildly concerned however, because there does not seem to be a great deal of torque required to continue tightening this nut - is that because I am just compressing the rubber bushings??

Second question - I only have time to replace the passenger side right now - any problem with letting the driver's side go for a week or so?

Thanks for your replies!

 

[techno]

Yeah, they are a pain to access.
Yes, you are compressing the bushes. An inch seems like a lot to be sticking through, are you following the install instructions?
Yes, you'll be fine for a few weeks before you have time to do the other side.

 

[Psuparrothead]

Thanks for the reply!

I just went out an measured - it is more like a 1/2 inch. I also compared it with the rusted out end of the OEM that I fished out of the well and it seems about the same amount of thread is above the nut.

There were directions on the box that the shock absorber came in, but I really didn't pay too much attention to them...probably typical, right?

Thanks again