Are Struts/springs a DIY job?

[Fine89]

I just finished a front 60k on my SHO - first time I did something myself other than the tune-up stuff.

How hard is it to replace my struts? I was thinking of renting that tool for the springs. Never done struts either..............

 

[SASHO91]

pretty straight forward.
The spring compressor tool runs 40 bucks or so.

really its only a few bolts, and the strut is out. But the pinch bolt is a known trouble spot for northern cars(rust).

Its recomended to replace strut mounts, and bearings at the same time to..

If im not mistaken SHObros offers a kit with everything you need.

alos, monroe has quickstruts that are allready assembled. So, in reality all you would do is pull the old struts out, and put the new ones in. You wouldnt need to compress the springs...
Just another option.

 

[excidere]

Make sure you use jack stands! But honestly its not that big of a job, especially if you cheat and use air tools like me

 

[SHO Continental]

Make sure you use jack stands! But honestly its not that big of a job, especially if you cheat and use air tools like me

That's not cheating.

 

[SHOtime2511]

That's not cheating.

yeah work smarter not harder

 

[mwt]

The spring compressor is usually on the list of loaner tools.

You just put a deposit on it and get your money back when you return it.

Mike

 

[sdpatt]

You should reference the AutoZone Repair Guides section for the procedure to perform the service. The job is more physical than the engine maintenance, but fairly simple in its tasks. Search within this Forum for tips on how to separate the lower control arm from the knuckle and the knuckle from the strut. I use a 4 foot long 2x2 to pry down on the tension strut to separate the LCA and a 1.5 ton bottle jack standing on the knuckle's collar with the shaft under the spring perch.

 

[pete315]

I just did my front struts. not bad at all. the pinch bolt on bottom of strut- just remove bolt and put bolt in other end with a screwdriver hammered in clamp. as you screw bolt in, it will stop on screwdriver blade and start to open up that clamp so you can remove strut. the place where I bought my struts have a machine shop in back. they removed spring from strut assembly and installed new strut, mounts, and bearings. no charge but I gave the guy a $10 tip. my left strut 75% blown, right one 100% blown. car now drives like new. ( I also had to do left inner/outer tie rod end). for some reason my right side ends were great with no play at all but the left side had a lot of play.