Changing Struts

[Eastcoast SHO]

so im about to do all four struts in my gen 3, is there any difference repacing gen 3 struts and the gen 2 struts or is there hidden surprises, i have done my gen 2, so i was just making sure there is nothing different between the two before i started ripping stuff apart, thanks

 

[jmpSHO]

I did front struts on a Gen 3 and it was pretty much the same as a Gen 2.

 

[SuperHO]

just grab struts from a 2002 taurus and use those. if memory serves, there are subtle enough differences to ruin your afternoon. stick with the car that uses the same mounting points and geometry.

 

[Eastcoast SHO]

just grab struts from a 2002 taurus and use those. if memory serves, there are subtle enough differences to ruin your afternoon. stick with the car that uses the same mounting points and geometry.

im not talking about using the struts from an gen 2, i already bought new struts for my gen 3, what i was asking was is there any difference in replacing the struts in the gen 3 than the gen 2

 

[SHOZ123]

No. If I were you though I would be spraying your favorite nuts buster on the rear pinch bolts now and every day for a week before you try taking them out. 50/50 mix of atx and acetone is cheap and works great.

The end away from the bolt head only has threads. The shoulder on the bolt head end is what seizes in the knuckle and then snaps off if you aren't careful.

Also get some MAP gas a heat it up really good. You will either need new pinch bolts or drill them out and use a 7/16" dia grade 8 bolt and locking nut.

 

[bacernate]

The only problem I have is you may have to lower the subframe a little to get the strut out of the knuckle as the control arm hits the frame. Not a problem on a gen 1 or 2.

 

[SuperHO]

really? i must've done something wrong then, cuz i never touched the subframe to replace mine.

 

[Izzmo]

Yeah, you shouldn't have to touch the subframe..? If you undo the bolts on the top of the strut mounting bracket.. you're golden! Once that is out and the pinch bolt, then you can just slide the strut right out of the hub.

 

[Mr95Gl]

If your having issues getting the strut out of the knuckle, then lower the subframe. My previous Gen 3 I had to lower the subframe. I didn't have to with my current one.