upper strut nut question...

[rapieper@yahoo.com (Ron Pieper)]

--- Jason Jones <jnbjones@boulder.net> wrote:
> I am about to undertake my first strut replacement and am worried
> about
> being able to remove these nuts.  Is it impossible to do without an
> impact wrench?  

No, but it's far easier with one.

>Also, I was thinking it would be safer/easier to get
> leverage if I were to use the spring compressor with the strut still
> on
> the car and then once the nut is loosened remove the strut and
> proceed. 
> Any issues with this?  

Hmmm...tight fit...too tight...BTDT.

Here's what I've done in the absence of having the "right" tool.  I
found the right sized socket, and ground a few flats into the sides, so
a Kentucky Fit-All (or vice-grips) would fit.  Through the square hole,
I put the allen wrench, with a pipe or something to gain the required
torque.  Just loosen it a bit.  

Or, preferably, get the right tool.

Then remove the strut, install compressors, and go to town.  YOu can
grab the shaft if you have to, since it's scrap anyway.  Trust me
though, that steel is sooo hard that not many hand tools will touch it,
so success has limited potential.

AFA getting the nut that holds the shock off (you didn't ask, but...) ,
put the strut (sans spring) back onto the hub carrier, and let the car
help you out.  Put large channellocks on the nut.  Put a loong (3' or
4') cheater bar on the outside (longer) handle of the channellocks, and
gronk away.  It *will* loosen.  Remember, heat is your friend.

> Also, would a shop be
> inclined to swap the cartridges for me even if I didn't purchase them
> from them and if so, what would be an appropriate charge?

That all depends on the shop!  Try an automotive machine shop that
doesn't sell so much.  Figure 1 hour's work...what, $40, $50?

=====
Cheapass Ron
"Victor" '87 16V Scirocco
"Teufelhasen" '93 Cabby <-For sale

If it ain't foggy, TURN OFF YOUR FOG LIGHTS.

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