Rear Struts

I have to ask this: why do you want to bother replacing the struts in the first place? Did the rear seat occupants complain?

I don't think so.

No, my rear seat occupants start that and I make them ride their bikes. ;-) If they are truly worn out, (the struts, not the occupants) is there a reason I should *not* replace them myself?

Just checking, and I was thinking the same thing.

-John O

$600 for just the rear struts, holy crap! I got a full set of KYB AGX adjustables for my 2.5RS for $350.

Th strut job is pretty easy, you just need a spr> I recently had a ball joint replaced, and the guys at the shop tell me

I knew there were better prices out there, my "no" to them was automatic.

Thanks, that does sound simple enough. I can get a pair of struts for $220 at autozone, and they have the spring compressor for a free loaner. I'll probably get new tires first.

-John O

Yes. The jarry ride in the back is good for their bone density. Saves you money on the milk. Not to mention $200 saved on the struts.

On the 99 OB, the rear strut is a "coilover" design. I'm assuming that what you are calling the "mount" is the strut top, which does not come with a replacement strut. This is probably the source of your "clunk". While this is not a terribly technical job, it does require at least a spring compressor, and a heavy duty impact wrench. The lower fasteners can be very tight, and you may need to remove the rear brake calipers as well. Also be careful with the ABS wiring. I'd suggest that $600 isn't too unreasonable, assuming that the price includes both strut cartridges, strut tops, and labor; I'd imagine that it is at least a 3 hour job, and the components aren't inexpensive. The KYB replacement cartridges are popular. Another good option (especially if you elect to DIY) would be to find a good set at a salvage yard; then you won't have to disassemble the strut, just bolt on the replacement.

ByeBye! S. Steve Jernigan KG0MB Laboratory Manager Microelectronics Research University of Colorado (719) 262-3101

Thanks Steve. This isn't a high-priority job, so I haven't even looked under there to see what's going on. I will, and I have a friend with the right wrench.

-John O

S wrote:

Hi JohnO,

I had a similar job done on my 1997 OBW on decmber 20th, 2005. I bought right and left strut assembly KYB ( OEM ) in USA from Autoparts Warehouse in Hamilton NJ delivered UPS free of charge in Fargo ND. My sister brought them back to me in Canada. Paid 141.64$ USD = 169.15$ CND and paid 1.8 hour labor 122.06$ CND including a 15% tax at my Subaru dealer for a grand total of 292.21$ CND

At 600$, you are being robbed...

Well, $600 is probably a decent price for the shop's parts and labor. Buying just the struts on the web and then having my neighborhood mechanic do the work would be the same deal you got. But I do appreciate the lead on the parts dealer, and I was contemplating doing it just this way. Thanks!

-John O