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Old 02-13-2018, 02:17 PM   #1
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Strut replacement questions

Hey everyone - 4 quick questions about strut replacements.

A. Does this strut mount look worn? I've been having an annoying wheel shake issue and after doing tie rods and end links, I'm going to tackle struts next before doing track arms.
https://photos.app.goo.gl/cAuXPhBQ6mVxhNfx2

B. What parts do I need for the replacement? I'm going to go with the Bilstein B4s or B6s (anyone strongly recommend one over the other? I currently have B4s on there) which I believe have the beveled washer. I'm going to with sachs mounts and a new bellows/bump stop. Will I likely need new strut bearings too? What would the symptoms of failed strut bearings be?

C. Is there a definitive answer to doing the rear struts - is it easier unbolt the cv joint or the axle nut?

D. I noticed a bit of rust on one of my springs - does this warrant replacement? Seems to just be near the bottom where some of the paint has peeled off.

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Old 02-13-2018, 03:59 PM   #2
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Just did this job on my ‘98, all 4 corners. I don’t think you can tell visually if the strut mount is worn. The most likely wear out item is the shock itself. However, your bump stop looks pretty bad and I would take that as an indicator of the condition of the other parts. (My bump stops had disintegrated). The components are not too expensive and I would just replace them all. You don’t get in there that often so just do it while you are there. I replaced my original shocks with B4s and reused the original springs because I like the ride for my street use and was worried the B6s would be too harsh. So far I’m happy.

As for the rears, removing the 8 hex screws holding the axle to the transmission was way easier than removing the axle nut. Also way easier to retorque.

Unless you see loss of material on spring due to rust, I would say OK to reuse
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Old 02-13-2018, 04:15 PM   #3
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Zibodo View Post
Just did this job on my ‘98, all 4 corners. I don’t think you can tell visually if the strut mount is worn. The most likely wear out item is the shock itself. However, your bump stop looks pretty bad and I would take that as an indicator of the condition of the other parts. (My bump stops had disintegrated). The components are not too expensive and I would just replace them all. You don’t get in there that often so just do it while you are there. I replaced my original shocks with B4s and reused the original springs because I like the ride for my street use and was worried the B6s would be too harsh. So far I’m happy.

As for the rears, removing the 8 hex screws holding the axle to the transmission was way easier than removing the axle nut. Also way easier to retorque.

Unless you see loss of material on spring due to rust, I would say OK to reuse
Ditto on the springs, and if you want to have some fun, paint them a cool color! My bumps are pretty much gone, but oddly enough my struts are good (for now)...
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Old 02-16-2018, 06:54 AM   #4
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Will check YouTube but do you have a video on how to do this. need to change my rear shocks but was unsure as to how hard it was going to be. Just had a 4 wheel alignment. will it ruin that?
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Old 02-16-2018, 08:33 AM   #5
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Search for “Changing struts/shocks on a Porsche Boxter” by Van Swenson. It’s pretty good
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Old 02-17-2018, 09:43 AM   #6
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You might like to check out my YouTube channel where I am documenting the process. Video of fronts is up and rears should be there by tomorrow.
https://www.youtube.com/user/12shoes2

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