Re Springs and Struts 87 5kcstq

[Dan Hamren <dan@magnitude-electronics.com>]

Paul-
Try asking a local shop if you can rent that tool.  My shop let me
borrow it, and it is probably expensive.  I replaced my front struts
with Blaustruts.  I left the original springs on because Mr. Blau said
that the springs on these cars were made to last.
Secondly, I wanted to keep the height for snow clearance.  I have a
wagon so the rears were replaced with S4 strut/spring assembly, this
will not pertain to your car.
As for the Blau struts they are 15% stiffer than the stock, and i am
satisfied with the ride, because I wanted a happy medium between comfort
and performance, after all it is a family wagon!
But if you don't have family, or you want performance I would go with
Boge,Koni, or my personal fav Bilstein.  @$18.00 each for the strut tops
I would replace them, especially in snow zones. And of course the boots,
but you knew that!  I also had to go back in and put a spacer washer to
stop the rattling, after 3k miles everything is great!
good luck, Its not that hard!

Dan Hamren
Redwood City CA
87 5kcstqw