[Vwdiesel] Strut bearing R&R

[Tony and Lillie]

Just did the front struts on the Jetta, pretty easy really. Start with the 
wheels on the ground. Loosen the lug bolts and the CV nut first. Then, put 
it in the air and pull the wheel.

At this point there are two ways to go. One requires alignment, but is much 
simpler. The other is a bit more work. I always have an alignment done 
afterwards, so I do it the simpler way. Just my .02


Way # 1: (Simpler) Pull the two bolts that hole the steering knuckle to the 
strut assy. Remove the brake line from it's holder on the strut.


Way # 2: Pull the ball joint through bolt. It is a 17mm bolt and nut. Then, 
pull the tie rod end out. A tie rod puller is the easiest way to do this. 
Pull the CV nut off and remove the Brake caliper from it's bracket. Pry down 
on the lower control arm to pop it out of the lower housing.

(Both ways - finish the job) Pull the two 13mm nuts off the top, and out it 
comes. Then, with a spring compressor in place, remove the 7/8" nut at the 
top, and swap out the strut bearing. Reassembly is the reverse of removal.

For this job, I usually have to use some heat to make a few things easier. I 
just use a simple propane torch.

Hope this helps,
Tony Hoffman



----- Original Message ----- 
Subject: [Vwdiesel] Strut bearing R&R


> Hello all-
>
> I need to replace one of the strut bearings on the
> Cabriolet.
>
> Anyone have any hints, tips, or tricks to make it a
> smoother job?
>
> Thanks,
>
> David