2002 windstar struts

[fy171]

which strut ass whould you recomend to use

[scubacat]

I used Monroe quick struts. I'm extremely happy with them and no need to swap the spring and mount.

Good luck prying the old one out of the knuckle....

[Grabber5.0]

I replaced the struts on my 02 Focus last year with Monroe Quick Struts, and had no trouble at all getting them out. The extra cost was worth not hassling with the springs. Was a very easy job. I'll probably use them on the Windstar when/if the time comes.

Edit: Scubcat: are they prone to be difficult to remove on the Windstar?

[scubacat]

The bottom part was just REALLY tight in the knuckle; I had a heck of a time prying it out. Doing them on my camry was a lot easier. I probably should have had a helper but I was too stubborn.

Remove the cowl for easy access to the top nuts.

I don't know why anyone would bother swapping the spring over with quick struts as an option. It doesn't hurt to replace all the components regardless and it's much cheaper this way on top of a lot less work.

[northern piper]

it isn't a bad job. I did both and you need a long pry bar as is mentioned but not difficult IMO. You don't need a spring compressor despite what some instructions say. I bought one and it remains unused. For sure take the cowl off. A bit of pb blaster (or similar) on the bottom of the strut a few days before you start the job will make the strut you're removing much easier to remove.

[fy171]

thanks going to use Monroe quick struts, do I need to use a new pinch bolt or can i use the same ones and the other nuts that i remove to change the struts

[northern piper]

my suggestion is yes. First off, I'd have them on hand even if you don't plan to replace them as the pinch bolt may become messed up in its removal. I personally replace most of my "mission critical" fasteners when I do work as I figure the cost is small and it gives me peace of mind. My wife and kids are the ones in the van and contemplating the idea of a suspension failure due to me figuring a fastener is "ok" would be horrible.

Anyway, to answer your question, I would. Pinch bolts and nuts, from what I've learned, are a one time install item. I have to say tho, on youtube you often see "professionals" reusing components... your call..

[scubacat]

I did not replace the pinch bolt but I probably would if I had to do it again. The new struts will come with 3 new nuts for the tower.

[fy171]

2 "Monroe 171920 Quick-Strut Complete Strut Assembly"
Misc.; $109.28
In stock. Processing takes an additional 3 to 4 days.
Sold by: Just Suspension
2 "Monroe 37110 Sensa-Trac Light Truck Shock Absorber"
Misc.; $35.00
In stock. Processing takes an additional 3 to 4 days.
Sold by: Just Suspension

[parkerb]

if it were I, get the (ford) spacer that goes on top of the upper mount so you won't hear creaking when turning the wheel.

[scubacat]

Only my right one makes that creak noise, but over my dead body will I pay Ford that ransom for those. A shot of silicon spray right on top of the tower once or twice a year works just as well. (just aim the hose right in there; no need to do anything more to treat that.)