Does that bolt in the center there need to be removed before I can take out the strut/spring? I've tried everything on that bad boy. No luck. If so, what are you guys using to remove that?

 

NO. you do not need to remove that nut to get the spring/shock assembly out. you just need to remove the three nuts around it (which it looks like you have already done). it'll take some manuevering to get that assembly out, but you DO NOT need to remove that top nut on the spring/shock assembly

that nut is removed to replace the spring. be sure to have your spring compressor on the spring or it'll shoot you in the face.

that nut is usually removed easily with an impact gun.

vinh

 

OK, i got the assembly out of the car. Still can't remove that nut. It seems the nut doesn't want to turn at all. But it's turning the entire bolt... deep within the strut. And it's coming out that way? I don't want to continue. I also tried an impact gun on that thing.
No luck. Even with 345lb/ft of torque it kept clicking in place like typical impact guns do. But if I do it by hand with a breaker bar, I can get it to turn, but again, the nut isn't turning, the entire bolt is.

 

did you try using a vise grip on the "piston rod"?

according to the manual,

"check that coil spring between spring upper seat and spring lower seat is free and then secure piston rod tip so that the piston rod does not turn, and remove piston rod lock nut"

I assume you do have the spring compressed.

wish i could help more, but my friend was the one who removed that nut and all he used was an electric impact gun.

 

Yeah, this chit ain't happening. Hopefully I can get it back together and will just get it installed professionally. *hangs head in defeat*

 

Hey, Let me know if you need it installed. But if you want to give it a try again, just push down on the impact gun while zapping it. The whole assembly will spin, but it will eventually come out.

Let me know if you need help. Bring it by the dealership if you can and we'll get it in.

Just curious, what springs/shocks you will be putting in.

 

i usually crack loose that piston shaft nut by about 1/4" turn ccw
before taking them off the car.

i used a spring compressor to compress the strut when i removed/installed
the assembly. i use basically zero to minimal force when working on
sus parts.