How Hard to Change Strut on Forester?

Question

The Left Rear strut on my 2000 Forester is shot-it is leaking and clunking. How hard to change? Any special tips? I have changed shock absorbers before but never a strut. I have jacks, impact tool, hand tools, reasonable mechanical ability.

Thanks, Jake

Carl 1 Lucky Texan · Accepted Answer

I would definitely consider replacing at least both rear struts. After market KYB would be fine.CarlJakey wrote:

Wilco van Diest · Answer

are these selfleveling struts?Wilco"Carl 1 Lucky Texan"  schreef in berichtnews:BIxNe.3695$

DG · Answer

I just changed the struts on an earlier year Impreza.  It is not too hard.Definitely do both rears as a pair.  Aftermarket KYB GR2 struts are fine andare the same brand  as OEM, though they may dampen more.  Disconnect brakelines and ABS sensor lines as needed.  Unbolt the bottom bolts, then unboltthe top three nuts.  The unit comes out in one piece.  You need to buy orrent a spring compressor to take the strut apart.  Be careful.  I've seencompressed springs described as a loaded nuclear weapon sitting on thedriveway.  Look on   for somestep by step instructions on how to do this.  The top strut nut can be toughto get off since it is recessed.  I used an impact wrench on its lowestsetting to loosen it.  The three strut mount nuts are fragile and gettorqued to 14 ft lbs only.  Don't snap 'em off.

Carl 1 Lucky Texan · Answer

Excellent post, accurate and succinct.CarlDG wrote:

Jakey · Answer

Thank you DG. Isn't the replacement part a complete unit that goes in placeof the old unit?  Why would I have to disassemble the unit with a springcompressor? Are you talking a strut cartridge replacement inside the unit?

How Hard to Change Strut on Forester?

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