OEM shocks come with the new mounts on them

How much are the OEM shocks with the mounts? In the aftermarket, I paid $80 for a pair Monroe Max Air shocks and $110 for both "Parts Master" mounts....

202 for the pair shipped form GMPD, plus you get a lft and right side, so that the air fittings are both in the proper location

The mounts that I bought were around $20 each. They just didn't isolate as well as the OEM mounts, so under sharp bumps, they make noise. So, my advice was more geared toward "don't scrimp on the mounts."

The redistruts or loaded struts though costly would definately be easier for the fronts, or even the previous generation Bonnevilles that had struts all the way around. I swapped out both rear shocks and mounts in less than an hour. These are the easiest shocks or struts I have ever done on any car, and my personal preference would be the Monroes over the OEMs.

there is no need to support the lower control arm, since these are shocks, correct?

The shock connects directly to the lower control arm with 2 bolts, but not in the same way as the strut does. The spring is still putting a downward force on the control arm, so for safety'* sake, it is still a good idea to keep the control arm supported. This will keep from over-extending the spring and the possibility that it could flying out. The possibility of that happen is slight, but I'd rather be cautious.

Here are the instructions:

Removal Procedure

1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Vehicle Lifting.
2. Remove the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Wheels, Tires and Alignment.
3. Support the control arm with a jack stand.
4. Disconnect the ELC air tube from the shock.
5. Remove the two bolts securing the shock to the control arm.
6. Remove the trunk trim to gain access to the shock upper mounting nuts.
7. Remove the cover, the two nuts, and the reinforcement from the top of the shock.
8. Remove the shock from the vehicle.

Installation Procedure
1. Install the shock, reinforcement, and the two nuts. Tighten the mounting nuts to 20 Nm (15 ft. lbs.).
2. Install the shock cover.
3. Install the trunk trim.
4. Install the shock-to-control arm bolts. Tighten the bolts to 24 Nm (18 ft. lbs.).
5. Connect the ELC air tube to the shock.
6. Install the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Wheels, Tires and Alignment. Tighten the wheel nuts to 140 Nm (100 ft. lbs.).
7. Lower the vehicle.

I am very satisfied with the Monroe Max Air Shocks so far. The ride and handling in my car is 100 times better now....[/quote]

My rear passenger shock mount went out on me last night coming home from a buddy'* house...I took the car in today and had both shock mounts and both shocks replaced.The problem started out with a clunk and I figured it was because of the cold temps.Well last night to my surprise I found out differently...After I had it fixed I found out I could've done the job for about $200.00 cheaper than what I paid but I didn't feel like messing with it as it is a tad bit cold and wet here and I don't have a garage to work in..I do apologize for the novel but I know what you are going through..Good Luck!!!

I also got the Monroes and they handle much better..forgot to mention that...