Strut grommet?>>>Easy fix???

[remy_zero]

I'm looking at buying an 89 SHO. The guy just had all of the struts replaced, but says that one in the rear is missing the little rubber grommet and so you can hear it hitting.
Is this an easy fix? Can I do it myself? If not, how much will it cost and is this a common thing in early SHO's?
Thanks to all,
Rem

 

[projectSHO89]

Strut grommet?

Not sure what that might be referring to...

Check out this page to see if you can provide the correct designation of the missing part: http://www.shotimes.com/php-bin/images/trwsuspension.jpg

BTW, what kind of struts did he have installed? Any other parts in the suspension also replaced?

Steve

 

[RStalveyARFF]

I know what he's talking about. On the rear strut tower there's a little rubber plug maybe the size of a half dollar. If you can hear the strut "hitting", then he replaced the struts, but reused bad upper strut mounts.

 

[remy_zero]

Thanks for the help so far. That's exactly what it's doing...hitting.
Now another question: What's my best bet to replace it? I'm somewhat capable when it comes to mechanics, but I've never tackled a job like taking a strut off.(Assuming you have to take it off to replace the mount.)
Thanks again,
Rem

 

[RStalveyARFF]

If you have no experience doing this, I strongly recommend having a professional mechanic do the work. Replacing the strut mount involves compressing the spring. If done improperly, it can seriously injure, or even **** you. A set of rear upper strut mounts from shonut costs around 73 when you factor in shipping, and labor will about an hour a side. I'd recommend having both strut mounts replaced.

 

[projectSHO89]

Since that "grommet" is an integral part of the upper mount, you will need to replace the complete upper mount.

As sho91mtx already stated, the springs need to be compressed in order to safely disassemble and to reassemble the strut/spring assembly. These compressors are available for a deposit only from many auto parts stores. They will make the job safe enough so that the assembly can be done by someone with decent mechanical skills.

If you choose to do them yourself, please exercise caution.

Steve