QuestionQUESTION: Hi - On a 2001 626- getting ready to replace the struts (front and back) It looks pretty straight forward other than compressing the spring. I do most of my own work (brakes, belts hoses, oil changes, tuneups). Are there any tricks or suprises I should be aware of before taking this on? Do I need to get alignment afterward? Thanks
ANSWER: yes make sure you use a spring compresser also get yourself a ball joint and tie rod end removal tool so you can remove them with-out bamaging them. make sure the spring mounts are in good shape or replace them.
some of these tools can be rented at parts stores they are someone expensive if your not using them on a regular bases.
you might also want to buy new drive axle nuts.
when removing the drive axle nut if you don't have and impact gun remove it before taking the tire off with the car still on the ground it may also be shanked use a brass punch and unshank it before removing it also make sure to hang the axle up out of the way with wire so it doesn't come out of the knuckle. ( i've had that happen before and had to replace the axle not cheap)
tools you'll need other then basic hand tools
ball joint removal tool
tie rod-end removal tool
drive axle socket
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: Thanks for the reply. I am replacing struts. Do I need to remove ball joint and tie rod? Sounds like instructions to replace drive axles. Thanks for clarifying.
Answerif it's just the struts your replacing then not you will not need to remove the ball joint and tie rods make sure to make alignment marks before removing the knuckle bolts and disconnect and remove components needed.
you shouldn't need alignment
good luck
