How difficult is it to install new struts yourself? I have a spring compressor and air tools? Or, is this something I should leave to a pro? Thanks...

 

You won't need the spring compressor; unless you want to be ultra-safe. The struts aren't that bad; since you have air tools, you'll be able to loosen the upper strut nut easier than someone without air. The torque for the strut-to-knuckle bolts is high; I don't know if you want to just set the impact gun on high and tighten the hell out of it, or use a torque wrench (should be set to 200 ft/lbs). And remember you'll need an alignment afterwards.


------------------
-Tom P (Hot rodded 1986 Firebird 2.8l)

 

Support the car on jack stands. Put a jack under the a-arm slightly pushing up on it. Unbolt the 2 lower bolts on the strut. Unbolt the brake line bracket. Lower the jack down. Unbolt the top nut and pull the strut out. It's that easy.

With air tools and the car already up on jack stands and the wheels off you should be able to change both struts in about 1/2 hour.

------------------
Follow my racing progress on Stephen's racing page
and check out the race car

87 IROC-Z SuperPro ET Bracket Race Car
461 naturally aspirated Big Block

Best ET on a time slip: 11.242 altitude corrected to 10.89
Best MPH on a time slip: 121.52 altitude corrected to 125.89
Altitude corrected rear wheel HP: 497.9
Best 60 foot: 1.546

Racing at 3500 feet elevation but most race days it's over 5000 feet density altitude!
Member of the Calgary Drag Racing Association

87 IROC bracket car, 91 454SS daily driver, 95 Homebuilt Harley