Help needed - rear strut removal [4kq]

[lrickert at covad.net]

It is really quite easy if you get the correct tool. I used two different
pullers when doing this job and I think the one I used for this is a basic
Pitman Arm Puller
http://www.autozone.com/images/in_our_stores/loan_a_tool/pullers_specialized/270
16L.jpg There are two sizes of these, measure and find the one that fits.
They are cheap or available for "free rental" A torch will help but will
probably mean you will need new ball joints in the back. To get those out make a
tool like the one shown in the manual (a flat piece of metal with a hole in it)
you put the threaded shaft through the hole and tighten the nut down, then using
long bolts in the balljoint mounting holes slowly pull the joint out of the
strut housing. Not too hard although yours look much more corroded then mine
were. I wouldn't try to heat this part too much for fear of messing up the
bearings. (that and burning rubber/grease isn't too pleasant)

good luck


Luke