METALCLOAK VIDEO: How to Install: MetalCloak JL Wrangler and JT Gladiator Front RockSport Black Shocks
This video walks through the complete front-shock installation for JL Wrangler and JT Gladiator using MetalCloak's Aluminum‑bodied 2.5" Reservoir Rocksport Black Shocks. We demonstrate unboxing and parts verification, the necessary preparation steps (including safely supporting the axle and removing the wheel), removal of the factory shocks and related brackets, and step‑by‑step installation of the Rocksport Black Shocks and reservoir mounts—highlighting hardware, torque points, and small tips like using channel locks for the flag nut and possible inner fender trimming for clearance. The install finishes with final hardware checks and reinstalling the wheel so you're ready to enjoy the upgraded ride.
Complete Transcript with Time Stamps:
[00:11] Installing the MetalCloak JL Wrangler or JT Gladiator Front RockSport Black Shocks? Hi, I'm Scott Becker with MetalCloak.
[00:19] The aluminum-bodied 2.5" Reservoir RockSport Black Shocks are something to behold. Massive matte black with gold accents. Billet laser engraved adjustment knobs. These things are beautiful and I can't wait to put them on.
[00:34] However, before we do that, let's go to metalcloakinstructions.com, print out the instructions and read it completely through them. And once we understand what we're getting into and we're certain we have all the necessary tools and skills, we can start in on the installation. So let's go down to the shop and get started.
[00:53] Our Jeep is already in a safe location and ready to be worked on, so we're gonna unbox the contents and verify that all the parts listed on the instruction page are accounted for before taking anything apart. Looks like we're good to go.
[01:09] The pieces we will be installing are located right here under the vehicle.
[01:14] Support the axle with jack stands and remove the front tire.
[01:20] Using an 18mm socket and wrench, remove the front shocks. Save the hardware.
[01:27] Using a 10mm socket, disconnect the brake line bracket that is attached to the frame. Save this hardware.
[01:36] Using a 10mm socket, disconnect the bracket from the spring perch on the axle and save the hardware.
[01:44] Place the lower shock bracket over the factory shock mount and install the factory 10mm spring perch hardware.
[01:52] Install the provided bolt and nut between the factory shock mount and fully tighten using a 9/16" socket and wrench.
[02:00] Install the provided hardware and tighten using a 19mm wrench and 8mm Allen wrench.
[02:08] Align the reservoir mount up to the frame and brake line bracket. Once aligned, reinstall the brake line bracket over the reservoir mount with the factory bolt.
[02:19] Using the provided bolt and flag nut, install the part of the reservoir mount that is closest to the spring. We recommend using a pair of channel locks to help hold the flag nut into place.
[02:31] Using a 5/32" seconds Allen wrench, tighten the reservoir mount closest to the spring.
[02:37] Fully tighten the brake line bracket using a 10mm socket.
[02:43] You may be required to modify your inner fender well to provide enough clearance for the shocks.
[02:48] Install shock mount into the upper mounting hole and attach it with the factory hardware.
[02:54] Install shock eye into the outboard mount previously installed using the supplied 1/2" bolt and flange nut from the mount kit.
[03:04] Tighten the upper and lower shock mounting bolts, using an 18mm socket for the upper bolt and a 19mm socket and wrench for the lower bolt.
[03:13] Using the provided custom gold hose clamps, attach the reservoir to the reservoir mount.
[03:19] Make sure to slide the hose clamps down to align with the holes on the mount. The image is shown without the reservoir in place to better display the clamp alignment.
[03:30] Using a 5/16" socket, tighten down the reservoir hose clamps.
[03:35] Make sure all hardware is fully tightened and reinstall the wheel.
[03:39] Now that we're done, all there is to do is to go out and enjoy your new Rocksport Black Shocks.
[03:45] To learn more, visit us at metalcloak.com.
[03:49] MetalCloak, it's your Jeep, only better.
For more information about this kit CLICK HERE.