I am in the middle of repainting my engine compartment and after taking off the strut bearings, I noticed the bearings are very "crunchy" when I turn them with my finger. These are original 86 bearings so they are well past their lifetime. My question is do I need to replace the entire thing or can I just replace the bearing. I need to spend my money on other things so I can't justify paying for the super adjustable aftermarket pieces unless I really have to. Besides, this is just a street cruiser so I don't need infinet alignment settings.

 

I'm not sure that the bearing is replaceable--at least without some significant work.

JamesC

 

Hello 1981LT1, I will be visiting San Antonio in December. I'm not sure the stock one is replaceable either, at least not just the bearing. If I were you I would go with an aftermarket one. Autozone sells them for $140(left and right side.) I haven't heard of anyone buying these but Founders Performance has the Spherical Mounts and are adjustable for only $170/pair. Here is the link

http://www.foundersperformance.com/p...er-Plates.html

 

BTW, if you purchase OE replacements (and after market as well), you'll need a new retainer to fit them. More info and pics in the following link:

https://www.thirdgen.org/forums/susp...elp-quick.html

Spohn found my findings interesting apparently. At any rate, the correct retainer can be purchased from his site (or from the bone yard. I think I paid $10 for mine):

http://www.spohn.net/shop/1982-1992-...-92-Style.html

JamesC

 

Those are pretty cool. I'd like to have the extended travel of the other versions, but for almost the price of the factory style OEM repops that's a damn good deal.

 

Well, it does say the Bearing is raised for lowered cars. Doesn't say how much though. You could ask before purchasing. Also it comes with a LIFETIME warranty for the plate itself, doesn't mention the bearing...something else to ask before purchasing because J&M does.