Volvo Repair: 2000 Volvo S80 strut replacement, strut compressor, 2000 volvo s80

Question
QUESTION: Can you tell me the steps to replace front struts on a 200 S80.  I have 100k and believe they need replacing.  I have a banging on driver front when hitting harder bumps.  I just replaced the pads with stepos from this forum and it worked great.  Thanks in advance

ANSWER: Stephen, what you probably need is the upper strut cushion.  The struts do go bad so its up to you on if you want to replace the struts as well.  You need special strut compressors so I need to know if you have those before we continue.  Roger

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QUESTION: Yes, I do have a strut compressor.  I am assuming that I would need to remove the strut to install a new strut cushion?  The steps to do both would be helpful.  Thanks again in advance for your help. Stephen

Answer
Stephen you have to take the strut out to do the cushion anyway.  The easiest way would be with air tools.  Remove the link rod, Remove the 2 bolts holding the strut in and then remove the 3 nuts at the strut tower.  You will have to twist the strut a little to get it out of there.  They kind of suck but are do able.  Let me know if you need anymore assistance.  Thanks. Roger