Terry, do you have the weight of the truck sitting on the wheels while you're trying to install the shocks? In a lot of cases, the shock length limits the suspension travel, so the axle housing must be jacked up to get the shock installed. Just a thought, as it's necessary, sometimes, to have weight on the suspension when removing/installing rear shocks. I run the auto shop at McGavock High School in Donelson. Call me or send an IM if I can help out.
Jerry