2001 E350 shock absorbers need to be replaced and from what I can see it's going to be tough getting a wrench or socket on the top nut. Clearance is crap. My deep sockets are too deep, shallow sockets are too shallow. Am I going to have to grind a deep socket down? What tools has anyone successfully used and what size it the nut?

 

The front shock nuts are easier to get at with the wheels removed Even then they can be a PIA. There are special tools that make the job a lot easier and it might be worth your while to check if your local auto supply store has them . One fits over the nut and the other allows you to hold the shaft and turn the nut.They are not that expensive . If you can't get in there any other way , I would definitely check them out.

 

Yeah, I had the wheels off. I have offset box wrenches but they are 12 point and I don't want to risk stripping the nut, then I have a bigger problem. I think a special tool is my only hope.