[Vwdiesel] Re: [Audi-VW-Diesels] Struts and Strut Bearings

[Gary, Orlando]

Nate,
You've replaced an engine yourself and yet balk at doing your own struts
and shocks!?  ;)

It is an extremely easy job for the DIY'er.

1) If you have access to Harbour Freight, they have a clam-shell type
spring compressor for $39. I don't trust the individual screw type
compressors any more. You can probably rent them from AutoZone or
similar for a few dollars. You can do the job without that special strut
socket. The top strut nut comes off easily with an impact wrench, and
the slotted nut comes off with a few jabs with a screwdriver. Spring
compressor is not needed for the rear springs. Just remove the shocks
and lift the rear. The springs will fall out.

2) Sachs-Boge are OEM. They make a "Turbo-Gas" that is popular(an
upgrade from OEM), and very inexpensive. Get the strut bearing
designated for the A3 VR6 cars. It is my understanding that A2 and A3
will share the same bearing assy. They are much sturdier than the stock
4 cyl replacements.

3) Springs do weaken. But I've only heard of Jetta rear springs that
sag. This is your opinion here that will determine if you need to
replace them. What kind of ride do you like? This may be an opportune
time to replace your stockers with Jetta GLI(GTI?) or Golf GTI springs.
They are a little stiffer than standard and should be easy enough to
find in the 'yards.

Good Luck, and you can do this!

-Gary, Orlando




On Tue, 2003-03-04 at 08:45, Nate Wall wrote:
>
> 1. Who here replaces their struts and bearings
> themselves? Is it worth it? I'd have to buy or rent a
> spring compressor and get the special strut sockets
> that are needed.
>
> 2.  What is a good brand of strut cartridge insert and
> strut bearing? A couple times before I had the strut
> bearings replaced only to begin knocking immediately
> upon going over bumps. Last time, the lasted in excess
> of 80 K miles before making any noise. Its kind of hit
> or miss.
>
> 3. Should the coil springs be replaced? (do they get
> weak?) I think the Parts Place has complete strut
> assemblies w/ new springs already assembled. Any
> thoughts about buying these and changing them out
> myself?
>
> Thanks
>
> --Nate
>
>
>
>
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