99 lumina LTZ, front struts

[paulfischer]

Hello all,
wanted to know how difficult it is to replace the front struts on the 99 LTZ.

Thanks!!
Paul

[dwalmop]

It's not hard at all. They're cartridges, so they insert from the top of the strut tower. You'll need a special tool to remove them, but you should probably be able to rent it, or buy it somewhat cheap (I got mine for about $20 off ebay). All you need to do is remove the cover for the strut under the hood, remove the strut bolt (works best with an impact wrench) and remove the rubber bumper, then use the special tool to unscrew the cartridge, and reverse procedure to install. Only takes about 1/2 hr - 45. min. to do both.

[paulfischer]

Thanks for the reply,
I saw the tool listed at napa. does it make a difference if the car is jacked up or on level ground?
How do you like your LTZ? Mine has been trouble free so far. Just turned 100,000.

Thanks again.
Paul

[paulfischer]

is it a safe bet to only have to replace the strut cartridge, or does the Strut Bearing Plate Insulator w/ Bearing and Strut Spring Seat need to get replaced also???????

Thanks
Again
Paul

[dwalmop]

you should be able to get away with only replacing the cartridge. However, if you are hearing some nasty noises when you turn the steering wheel coming from the strut, you may want to replace the other parts too, but that's a lot more work. BTW, you want to vehicle to be on the ground. If it's lifted up, the tower won't be aligned correctly with the body.

I don't actually own an LTZ, but I used to work in a small garage while in college, (actually, I'm still in college) and have replaced many struts in those things. They're nice cars, and have proven to be very reliable.

[paulfischer]

thanks for your help.
no other noises coming from front end. just want to replace the struts. preventive maintance.
how hard are the rear ones to do????
BTW, found the strut tool online @ Ebay.

Thanks again
Paul

[dwalmop]

The rears aren't bad either, but you would need a spring compressor, and a strong impact wrench is almost necessary to remove the strut bolts from the knuckle. You will also need an alignment after replacing the rears. Also, you'll want the back end off the ground if you replace the rears.