a-talk

If you're actually replacing the insert, you figure that one is toast anyway, so who cares how much you gouge the shaft, right!

Tom Serrago

I used a strap wrench to hold the cart. shaft because I didn't want to replace them.
The recommendation of a vice grip is a good one if you're going to replace them.

mccastlej

WOW, I think a few people here have never done this job by the replies you are getting. You will need to remove the strut assembly to get the strut cartridge replaced. Do not take off the inner nut until you have the spring compressed with spring compressors. I myself have done this to two Audi 5000S vehicles. If you want to remove this, you had best get a chilton on haynes repair manual so you will be able to follow the instructions step by step. Would be much better than anyone trying to recall from memory how to do it. (Including me).
One one that I had a really hard time with, I had to remove the strut cartridge retaining nut to get the strut cartridge out, then I put the strut cartridge shaft it a vise to hold it still while I removed the nut.

birdmanmt

so you're telling me i've haven't changed struts on my car and at least 4 other t44's without taking the assembly off? You just do it the hard way. I read thru the listers who have replied, i assure you that most if not all have done it them selves. so WOW right back at you.

i PROMISE YOU it can be done leaving the strut assembly in the car. here's the steps, recalling from memory accurately:

open hood
jack up car
remove tire
slide up strut boot
remove strut cap either with tool #_____ or use a pipe wrench.
remove camber plate
slide cartridge out top

yes that's it. i can do both sides in under 45 minutes. the rear's are even easier.

Will Ng

LOL! Ditto.

Mister Bally

If you don't believe the posts, check the Bentley manual. On my old '87 5000CSq, I did them in less than 2 hours. In place of the special tool, I used the pipe wrench as another suggested. So I had to jack up the car and remove the front tires. In the Bentley shop procedure, you don't even have to do that!

mccastlej

OK mr. quickie,

Yes, you can do it how you are talking, but what are you going to do if the spring ever decides to go elsewhere? Also, if you take the strut assembly out, you can better check your ball joints, strut bearings, control arm bushings, and other suspension components that should be checked if you are already changing out a cartridge. I guess if you want to get the dead done quick go ahead, if you are concerned with checking anything else, pull the strut. Doesn't take long to pull the strut and put it back in either.

birdmanmt

sorry but you're not exactly gaining any ground here....all of the "other" maintance items can be checked and changed independently and easily. it takes a heck of a lot longer to pull the whole assembly than to just change the insert.

and as far as the spring goes, i put a jackstand beneath the bearing housing to keep pressure on it so it doesn't go elsewhere, gee that was tough.

just because a cartridge is bad, doesn't mean anything else is......