Like it says, I have a 2002 Venture van WB edition with the air rear suspension, has about 85-90k miles on it, yes it really is that low. Lately I noticed(and especially in the 3rd row) that the vehicle bounces around, almost as if I am going to lose control. Does this mean I need new shocks struts and springs? Or are only the shocks and struts shot? What sorts of special tools will I need for this task if I decide to not outsource it to a shop? I generally don't go to shops, as everytime I ask for my old parts to be placed in a box in the trunk they never do, and they are required to do so by law the last time I looked into it. I've been ripped off at least once for certain, and unfortunately was never able to recover anything from that incident, so I have always done my own work after that. Of course times have changed, mostly me getting older, and wanting to spend time working on my 86 XR4Ti, and not the wifes grocery getter.

 

springs support weight...shocks control the jounce and rebound...ie ocillations of the springs.
if the ride height is sagged....you need springs
if the vehicle bounces uncontrollably, you need shocks.

not sure what your van uses for rear suspension....if its a macpherson strut set up....go with quick struts and you can do it yourself....hopefully you do not live in the rust belt
if it uses a dead rear axle...the springs and shocks are separate parts....shocks should be easy for a diy fix

 

I think your shock absorbers need replacing, Look up a replacement for GM 19169325, it should be an air shock. If this is like your setup, you should see air lines going to the shocks. As per this link: https://www.gmpartsonline.net/v-2002...ear-suspension