If you can fit and the tools fit you don't need to raise the bus. If the
shock are gas charged they will have to be compressed to install if the bus is
not jacked up. ( I think they probably have to be compressed to install  even
if the bus is on jacks.)

To accomplish this I used my body weight on the top of the shock with the
bottom of the shock on the ground and compressed it down toward the ground to
"shrink" its length. I then wrapped the shock in that position with a thick
wire  coat hanger to hold it at the correct length and installed it by  slipping
the appropriate bolts through. Obviously with this method you  should use
caution that the hanger/sling does not slip or pop. Not that the  shock will move
with great speed to it's "shipping" length--it will move  somewhat slow. But
the wire hanger popping off could put out an eye.

Wear protective eye gear and use caution at your own risk.

This was all a pretty simple process. A little finesses was necessary  to get
the shock to the "correct length" for the bolting in. Once in place  the wire
can be removed and you're good to go.

To my understanding the shock will have little to do with the height of the
bus.

Best,
Jeff
83.5 Westy
LA,CA

In a message dated 3/11/2006 9:46:27 P.M. Romance Standard Time,
aarondpearson@HOTMAIL.COM writes:

when i  replace the rear shock, do i need to support the van?  the spring  and
trailing arm take all the weight and stress, so all i need to do is  unbolt,
remove, replace, rebolt?  wheel stays  on?