Technique for aligning new strut?

[Black_Blade]

I have to replace the lower control arm on the passenger side of my 2002, so while at it will be putting new Munroe quick strut assemblies in as well. Just wondering what is a good technique to use to align the new strut to the steering knuckle. If was putting old one back in then could just use an index mark, but when the strut is new? Also, Haynes manual calls for removal of the knuckle to remove the strut, is this really necessary? Or is it just a case of getting the knuckle out of the way so you can maneuver the strut out?

[phil-l]

The steering knuckle connection does not need to be removed in order to replace the struts.

Take a look at pictures from my Windstar strut replacement project:

http://good-times.webshots.com/album/560513401mTnRfu

I've included some notes with each picture that help explain what I did.

[Black_Blade]

Originally Posted by phil-l

The steering knuckle connection does not need to be removed in order to replace the struts.

Take a look at pictures from my Windstar strut replacement project:

http://good-times.webshots.com/album/560513401mTnRfu

I've included some notes with each picture that help explain what I did.

Right on, thanks for the info and great pics. I went with the pre-assembled replacement strut, did the strut tear apart before and was a nightmare that didn't want to get into again. figure this was be easier and faster...we will see...lol

I was just wondering about how you locate the new strut properly into the knuckle, its been a while since that last time I did struts. Does the strut bottom out into the knuckle fitting? So you know its oriented properly to the knuckle etc.

[phil-l]

There's a bracket near the bottom of Windstar struts that locates it in the knuckle - though my pictures don't show this detail very well.

Take a closer look at the picture of the new struts, which is the first photo in my album. Near the bottom of the left side of the strut on the left of the picture, you'll see a small black metal bracket sticking out; it includes a hole. The knuckle pinch bolt goes through the bracket's hole - so correctly locating the strut in the knuckle is a snap. There's really only one way it will fit.