Using a side mounted spring compressor , compress the spring and remove the top nut and retaining washer. Pull strut assembly out from the bottom of spring. Slide the new strut assembly up into the spring and reposition the top mount onto the spring in the same position that it was removed.
How do you change a strut assembly?
- How to Tell If You Need New Struts. ...
- Measure the Camber Angle. ...
- Loosen and Remove the Nuts and Bolts. ...
- Separate the Strut and Knuckle. ...
- Remove the Strut Mount Nuts. ...
- Install the New Strut and Reset the Angle.
Is it hard to change a strut assembly?
Installing the new strut is the reverse of the removal, but it’s very tricky and sometimes impossible to get it into place and hold it there while you get the nuts started. So enlist the help of a friend for the actual installation. Once it’s in place, torque the strut mount nuts to spec.
How do you remove front struts?
Strut Replacement
Replacing struts used to be a dangerous job for a DIYer. ... These assemblies allow you to replace both of your front struts yourself in less than two hours . You’ll have to get an alignment done afterward (about $100), but you’ll still save about $300 by doing the job yourself.
How long does it take to remove a strut?
It takes about 2 to 3 hours to replace struts. The time to get the struts replaced depends on the skill level of who is replacing them and how rusted the bolts and joints are. When you have worn-out struts, you have to replace them because they can cause more damage.
How much does it cost to replace a strut assembly?
A typical shock and strut replacement can set you back anywhere between $450 and $1,100 on parts and labor combined. An individual shock and strut assembly costs around $150 to $900, while estimated labor costs for replacing a shock and strut assembly can range anywhere from $150 to $300 per assembly.
Is replacing struts easy?
The good news is, some repairs are easy to do at home . Like replacing shocks and struts. It’s not a job that you should attempt if you’re not familiar working with vehicles, but with a little training and experience, you’ll be ready to tackle the job.
Can you replace just one strut?
It’s not necessary , but it’s usually recommended to replace them in pairs, for example, both front struts or both rear shocks. ... However, if your car is not very old, replacing only one strut or shock absorber may be enough, since the opposite side is not worn out yet.
How do I know if my front struts are bad?
- Instability at highway speeds. ...
- Vehicle “tips” to one side in turns. ...
- The front end dives more than expected during hard braking. ...
- Rear-end squat during acceleration. ...
- Tires bouncing excessively. ...
- Unusual tire wear. ...
- Leaking fluid on the exterior of shocks or struts.
Are front struts interchangeable?
Are front struts interchangeable? Struts are interchangeable from side to side . There’s a notch on the shock body in the fronts where the pinch fork must slip around.
Do you have to get an alignment after replacing struts?
Replacing those struts requires no alignment .
What happens if you don’t replace struts?
Safety: Worn struts result in longer stopping times and/or distances as the vehicle weight can shift (sometimes unexpectedly) during braking. ... Wear on other parts: Driving with bad struts accelerates the wear on tires, as well as other components of the suspension system, such as the springs.
Should I replace all 4 shocks at the same time?
Shocks and struts should always be replaced in pairs or, better yet, all four , for even, predictable handling and control. After all, all four have been on the vehicle for the same number of miles and worked under the same conditions.
Can I drive with bad struts?
No. It needs to be repaired as soon as possible . A strut works by absorbing the bounce of your car driving over bumps in the road. ... Driving with a broken strut will be extremely uncomfortable for you and your passengers, and is unsafe in an emergency.
What noise does a bad strut make?
Bad strut sounds are usually described as a hollow clunking or banging type of sound . You’ll typically hear the noise when the vehicle is traveling over irregularities in the road. Most front strut assemblies also have a bearing at the top.
What is the difference between a shock and a strut?
Struts serve multiple purpose : the internal shock absorber will dampen the movement of the spring as it compresses and rebounds itself while the vehicle is travelling and with its spring it will support the weight of the vehicle while it is moving so that it can adapt to road irregularities In sum, while the shocks ...
