Quick strut top bushing question

[andrewro]

Hey folks, when I turn the steering wheel, should the nut at the top of the strut turn? I have the hood up, and I've noticed that one of mine does, and one doesn't. I'll be replacing them soon but I'm pulling them today to grease the bearings so I can drive around for a few weeks. Thanks!

[andrewro]

Okay, here is another strut top question.

I have dropped the left strut down from the bearing, and removed the bearing to clean, repack, and reinstall. Now I am trying to reinstall it but there isn't enough strut length at the top to get all the spacers and the nut on again. I have the coil compressed as far as I can go with my compressor tools. There's just not enough strut at the top to reattach it to the bearing.

Has the strut shaft retracted into the strut housing? This seems to be the case. Does anybody have any suggestions? I'd like very much to get it back together tonight.

Thanks,

Andy

[2002Targa]

That happens with some older struts, just get all the spacers/washers and spring hat ready (nearby, but off of the strut), thread the big nut on a little bit and pull the shaft out as far as it goes. Then real quick throw all the pieces on and start the nut. It helps if everything is laid out nice so you can get it on quicker.

TK

[andrewro]

Thanks! After much initial cursing, your plan worked. I was able to get the nut on, then get some vise-grips onto the shaft of the strut to stop retraction, then get everything bolted up on top. Cheers!

[NickVyse]

That happens with some older struts, just get all the spacers/washers and spring hat ready (nearby, but off of the strut), thread the big nut on a little bit and pull the shaft out as far as it goes. Then real quick throw all the pieces on and start the nut. It helps if everything is laid out nice so you can get it on quicker.

TK

wouldn't that indicate a knackered shock absorber with little or no rebound?

[andrewro]

You are correct that these struts are very tired. They'll eventually be replaced but they will have to wait their turn.