'88 5kcstq suspension binding, bent strut conclusion

[auditude at get.net]

Hi,

Regarding my '88 5kcstq that has a binding front suspension after reassembly after clutch and rack.
Well, I looked at the car to see if the axles were switched and sure enough the longer of the two was on
the right side.  Since the engine is canted towards that side at the bottom, I would say that's probably the
side for the shorter axle.

I swapped them and checked it out.  The problem is still there, and I think I know why now.  I think the
strut bent as a result of the axle pole vault action.  When I jack up the right side, the spring force is
enough to extend the strut, and it makes noise like there is rusty metal inside breaking up or something.
Then when I set it down, the strut takes a set again, with room to go before the bump stop hits.  I'm
hoping it's just the insert that's jacked up, but if it's not, I suppose I could try to fit the fwd 5kt one if it's the
same.

I did pull the donor struts before determining the problem.  Maybe some fairies will come in the night and
swap them in for me.

I was in too much of a rush to get things buttoned up.  Great argument against procrastination I think.
Gotta pace and budget time or something, hehe.

It wasn't all that fun using a pipe wrench to remove the donor struts.  I'm thinking I'll be getting one of
those strut tools.  I have an email in to Zelenda.

Later,

Ken