How to Install Icon 1.5 Coilovers and Shocks: A Step-by-Step Guide

Upgrading your vehicle's suspension with Icon 1.5 coilovers and shocks is one of the most effective ways to improve off-road performance, ride quality, and stance. Whether you drive a Ford Bronco, Toyota Tacoma, or F-150, the Icon 1.5 series offers a perfect balance of adjustability and durability. In this guide, we'll walk you through the entire installation process, from gathering tools to final torque checks, so you can tackle the job with confidence.

Before you begin, note that installation complexity varies by vehicle. This guide covers general steps applicable to most trucks and SUVs. Always refer to your specific vehicle's service manual and the included Icon instructions. If you're not comfortable with suspension work, consider professional installation. Let's get started.

Tools and Parts You'll Need

To install Icon 1.5 coilovers and shocks, gather the following tools: a floor jack and jack stands, torque wrench, socket set (metric and SAE), Allen wrenches, spring compressors (for coilovers), pry bar, penetrating oil, and a marker. You'll also need your new Icon 1.5 coilovers and shocks, along with any hardware provided. For example, if you're working on a Ford Bronco, the Bilstein 6112 Strut & Spring Set for 2021-2024 Ford Bronco 2 DR 4WD w/0.8-3.6 is a popular alternative, but this guide focuses on Icon products.

Safety first: wear gloves and eye protection. Ensure the vehicle is on level ground and securely supported. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.

• Floor jack and two heavy-duty jack stands
• Torque wrench (ft-lb and in-lb ranges)
• Spring compressors (rent or buy)
• Penetrating oil for rusted bolts

Step 1: Prepare the Vehicle

Park on a flat surface and loosen the lug nuts on all four wheels (but don't remove them yet). Jack up the front or rear of the vehicle and place jack stands under the frame or designated lift points. Remove the wheels and set them aside. For the front, you'll need to disconnect the sway bar end links and brake line brackets to allow the knuckle to move freely.

Spray penetrating oil on all bolts you'll be removing—especially the lower strut bolt and upper control arm bolts—and let it soak for 10-15 minutes. This will make disassembly much easier.

Step 2: Remove the Factory Coilovers

For the front, support the lower control arm with a jack to relieve tension on the coilover. Remove the upper strut mounting nuts (usually accessible from the engine bay) and the lower strut bolt. Slowly lower the jack to release the coilover, then slide it out. You may need to pry the lower control arm down slightly. For the rear, the process is similar but often simpler—remove the upper and lower shock bolts and pull the shock out.

If your vehicle has a coil spring separate from the shock (like some older trucks), use spring compressors to safely remove the spring. Always compress springs evenly and never remove the compressor until the spring is secured in the new assembly.

• Mark the orientation of the old coilover for reference.
• Keep all bolts and hardware; you may reuse some.

Step 3: Assemble the New Icon 1.5 Coilovers

Before installation, you'll need to assemble the Icon 1.5 coilovers. Slide the spring over the shock body, ensuring the spring seat is oriented correctly. Use spring compressors to compress the spring just enough to install the upper mount and retaining nut. Torque the top nut to the specification in the Icon manual (typically 30-40 ft-lb). Do not over-compress the spring—leave enough room to install the assembly.

For vehicles like the Toyota Tacoma, the Icon 0-1 and Icon 0-2 options offer different lift heights. Choose the setting that matches your desired lift. Adjust the preload by turning the spring collar with the provided spanner wrench. A higher preload increases lift and stiffness.

Step 4: Install the New Coilovers and Shocks

Position the new Icon 1.5 coilover into the lower control arm pocket and align the upper mounting studs with the holes in the chassis. Install the upper nuts and tighten them finger-tight. Then, install the lower bolt and nut. Torque the lower bolt to the vehicle manufacturer's specification (typically 80-100 ft-lb). For the rear, install the shock with the top bolt first, then the bottom, and torque accordingly.

Reconnect the sway bar end links and brake line brackets. Double-check that all hardware is tight and that no lines or wires are pinched. Repeat the process on the other side.

• Use a jack to lift the lower control arm to align the coilover.
• Do not fully tighten upper nuts until the vehicle is on the ground.

Step 5: Final Checks and Alignment

Reinstall the wheels, lower the vehicle to the ground, and torque the lug nuts to spec. Bounce the front and rear to settle the suspension. Now tighten the upper strut nuts to the final torque (usually 30-40 ft-lb). Check all bolts again after 50 miles of driving. A professional alignment is mandatory after lifting—camber, caster, and toe will be affected.

Test drive gently at first, listening for clunks or rubbing. If you installed Icon 1.5 coilovers on a Ford F-150, consider pairing them with shocks like the Eibach Pro-Truck Stage 2R Coilovers & Shocks Lift Kit for 2021-2026 Ford F150 4WD for optimal performance. Enjoy your improved ride and off-road capability!

• Alignment is critical for tire wear and handling.
• Re-torque all bolts after 500 miles.

Installing Icon 1.5 coilovers and shocks is a rewarding DIY project that dramatically improves your vehicle's off-road performance and appearance. With the right tools and patience, you can complete the job in a weekend. For top-quality suspension components, explore Shocksurplus's selection of Icon products and other brands like Bilstein, King, and Eibach. Check out the Icon 0-1 for a mild lift or the Icon 0-2 for more aggressive stance. Happy wrenching!