I installed my Ranchos last weekend. You're right about the top of the rears being a pain. It took me longer to find a breaker bar and wrench slim enough to fit in the limited space than it did to actually install the rear shocks! Plus I had one of the front shocks' lower bushing siezed onto the bolt. That was real pain in the ***** to break loose. I hate when when you need tools or parts and your only mode of transportation is down and it's 8:30 pm.
I used the new bushings up front. I really don't think it matters. I had them, so I just used them.
RichD
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...because vinyl just sounds better!