[VAL] shocks and axles

[Chris Koehn <timberguides@xxxxxxxxx>]

While changing tires today, I got a good look at the shocks and brakes
on our A/S. I'll be replacing the brakes, but I can't figure out how
the shocks come off. They are mounted diagonally; the bottom of the
shock seems easy enough- connected with a bolt, but the top is on a 
stud, with a nut on the
back side within 1/2" of the frame. I think I could (barely) get the
nut off, but the top of the shock measures at least 1".  I can't see
how the top of the shock could come off the stud without dropping the
whole axle. What am I missing?

Also- while mentioning axles.. it appears as though both axles are
crowned upward in the middle 1-2". Is this normal, and if not, is it
worth replacing? I'll be full-timing beginning in one month.

Thanks for the help!

Chris
#8638