Toyota Repair: Struts on 94 Camry, inner fender, oil changer

Question
Greg,

I need to change f and r struts on '94 Camry 4 cyl. 4 door.  I have been told that I can get into a mess trying to change struts.  What special equipment do I need?  What all needs to be changed?  I have 345K miles and as far as I know, they are the originals.  Is it a do-able job for an oil changer- starter and alternator changer-type of "mechanic" or will I get into a world of mess?  The price I have had quoted is upwards of $600 by a mechanic and I am not sure if that includes new mounts, springs, or other things I will need.  I just do not have that money to put into the car. (If I did, I would not have the car!)

Also, I ran across Easy Struts on the net that say they have everything I need all put together and ready to go.  Is that true?

Answer
You will need to rent a spring compressor if you intend to do the job yourself. Just pay attention and you should do just fine. I would make sure you have new bushing for the top of the strut where it meets the inner fender. Again, make sure you use the spring compressor correctly and the entire job (if you do it yourself) should only coast about $200.