Instructions for front strut replacement?

[greenheckler]

I have done a search on this topic, but I have not seen step by step directions or videos for a home mechanic. There are lots of threads that are specific to strut parts or brands, or M30 vs stock. I am just looking directions to replace both the strut and spring.

Is the job only for an indy? Do I need special tools?

[JFP in PA]

Originally Posted by greenheckler

I have done a search on this topic, but I have not seen step by step directions or videos for a home mechanic. There are lots of threads that are specific to strut parts or brands, or M30 vs stock. I am just looking directions to replace both the strut and spring.

Is the job only for an indy? Do I need special tools?

To change the struts or springs, you are going to need a suspension spring compression tool and a lot of car as this springs are dangerous when handled under compression.

[RandallNeighbour]

If you are replacing the struts and the springs, and the new ones you buy are assembled and torqued down properly, you don't need spring compression tools, although one might be helpful to get the old strut out and the new strut in. I did the installed spring on strut swap without a compression tool. BTW, you can borrow or rent one from Autozone or Pep Boys...

It's a follow your nose kind of operation to be honest. I never did it before and did not even remove the calipers when I swapped out my struts... but I should have done so because it would have made the hub a lot lighter and easier to deal with.

[lkchris]

See Bentley manual.

[jakeru]

I have two links for you:
Boxster Hacks and Instructions

Porsche Boxster Shocks & Spring Replacement - 986 / 987 (1997-08) - Pelican Parts Technical Article

I like the balljoint press tool from harbor freight, although it does need some grinding/clearancing to fit around the shaft of the thick porsche ball joints. Easy if you have any sort of grinder (bench grinder, angle grinder, die grinder).
3/4" Forged Ball Joint Separator

I found it helpful to loosen the lateral a-arm bolts where they connect to the frame, so the lateral arm can be pressed down without fighting against torque in the rubber joint. This will upset the alignment, though. I didn't find it necessary to remove or loosen either end of the trailing arms (where they connect to frame or to lateral arm).

I believe any Macpherson spring compressor should work. You will need to remove the strut before being ready to compress the springs, though.

[greenheckler]

Originally Posted by jakeru

I have two links for you:
Boxster Hacks and Instructions

Porsche Boxster Shocks & Spring Replacement - 986 / 987 (1997-08) - Pelican Parts Technical Article

I like the balljoint press tool from harbor freight, although it does need some grinding/clearancing to fit around the shaft of the thick porsche ball joints. Easy if you have any sort of grinder (bench grinder, angle grinder, die grinder).
3/4" Forged Ball Joint Separator

I found it helpful to loosen the lateral a-arm bolts where they connect to the frame, so the lateral arm can be pressed down without fighting against torque in the rubber joint. This will upset the alignment, though. I didn't find it necessary to remove or loosen either end of the trailing arms (where they connect to frame or to lateral arm).

I believe any Macpherson spring compressor should work. You will need to remove the strut before being ready to compress the springs, though.

Thanks for the info everyone!