ERIC, just seeing this video for the first time now in 2018. If you still perform the strut changes like this, I would like to make one very safe suggestion. Always have a heavy line such as a boat line handy. Tie the strut compressors together at approximately the center line point of the threads on both sides facing away from you. You can use a bowline type knot so the rope is not too tight on the threads. If they ever release like they do in this video, they will be held together in sync and will just drop down versus popping out to the sides. Was taught this back in 1982 working on my 82 Accord by my buddy and local Honda shop foreman who taught me pretty much everything I know about cars for the next 30+ years after. Hope this helps.
I'm pretty sure he wasn't supposed to release the tension without something to prevent the compressor from sliding around the spring under so much weight. He created his own problem from the beginning. You can see he install the compressor arms crooked from the start. Stupid.
@@MrSupernova111it's only stupid if you get hurt. If you don't get hurt then it's a learning moment. I've found that none of these internet mechanics are experts in all things automotive mechanicals. They all make mistakes, none of them do it the right way all the time. The best part though is that when they screw up, you learn what not to do if you happen to need to do that job. And many persons, such as yourself included, offer excellent advice, making every viewer even safer. You should always learn from your mistakes, but it's much safer and less painful to learn from other people's mistakes.
Im from utah and they use this guys videos on their tablets for convicts trying to straighten up their lifes and learn about automotive repair before theyre released.... Ive enjoyed these videos
So glad that you are showing this method. I did this 30 years ago on a car and realized how dangerous it was back then. It was on a Datsun 510. Now that I am older and wiser I will take the strut to a shop and have them replace the spring for me.
Wow. I’ve never seen your bench look so messy. I do have to say I miss these old videos. But I’m happy you are where you are now. You deserve it. Thank you for all your great shows.
I struggled for three hours trying to get the struts off. Then I watched your video and I went and removed them in a fraction of the time. This video has save me a lot of aggravation and time. Thanks for the informative useful how to video.
Couldn't figure out why the control arm bushing looked like it was binding. It wasn't until after watching this, that I realized the locating tab wasn't where it should be. I readjusted the fork on the shock and now everything seems to be in line. Thanks for sharing that little tid-bit. 😎
i bought my struts with the springs already preloaded. saved alot of time and is much safer imo. Spring compression tools are expensive and dangerous to use. Thank you for posting this video, instead of paying a mechanic to do my struts, my uncle and myself were able to do this with the help of this video and save 4 or 5 hundred dollars on labor
This is so handy and I will tackle this tomorrow. My car is very bouncy and unsafe. Eric the Car Guy Rocks! Thanks to him I've been able to do a lot of work on my Honda CRX. He's inspired me and showed me I can do so much for myself. I've found cordless Impact Tools are also great if you have a crappy compressor.
I told you this one was better than the other one, drama, makes for good viewing. I was worried it would come apart so I stood WAY back when I hit it with the impact. I've never been hit but I've know guys who were and they are scared for life.
I've been cautioned by several techs against using air tools when doing this job, more specifically when installing the upper strut mount. Foolishly, I chose to ignore that. Lo and behold, when installing aftermarket KYB struts on my Prelude, my buddy used an air tool and snapped the strut.
Can't tell you how helpful your videos have been. I've gotten stuck numerous times in my years with this Honda and it never fails you always have a how to video for it. This week it was struts. Thanks
@DJYIC I'm not sure if water could get INTO a strut but if I've learned anything working on cars it's that just about anything is possible. There are a lot of things that struts do for you besides a smoother ride, they also help decrease stopping distance as well as help maintain traction, if you suspect a problem with them it should not be taken lightly.
Say Eric I really appreicate and enjoy your instructional videos on the Honda, I've been the pitt crue for my wife for over 71 years. But you are the go to guy for me with her Honda Accord LX 93, thank you for TH-cam moreover thank you dude.
I did a strut replacement(first one I've ever done I might add, lots of head scratching and trial and error, wish I would have found this video) on a CRV a month or so ago. I borrowed the compressors from my neighbor, he has the exact same kind you have. We had a terrible time with them twisting all over, but when we used 3 it was much more even, I'm guessing because the tension is distributed by 2 instead of 3. Thanks for the video!
@MustangFan424 Not sure I agree with you because if you use a ratchet you will be applying a twisting force to the spring tool which might cause it to walk to one side, I think the gun applies an even consistent force thus helping to eliminate that problem.I've never cracked a strut tower putting them in but it is possible,after working with air tools a while I think u develop a feel for them and u know how much to tighten things without damage but it does happen on occasion as u pointed out.
Great video! I've done Honda strut installs many times as well. To preload the lower control arm at 9:05 for tightening the thru bolt, I jack the arm up. I found it to be an easy way to do so without lowering the car onto its wheels.
Thanks for the comment. Yea, springs letting go makes for exciting video. In a way I'm glad it happened on camera so that the viewers could see the potential danger.
@nolly72 You are correct that is a camber angle issue and on that car there is no adjustment so it's most likely a ride height issue which would be controlled by the springs. If the springs are broken or not the springs that came on the car then this could be the cause. If the car is lowered then you might look into a camber correction kit.
@DJYIC They don't "collect water" per se but they are filled with oil, if the oil is cold or some of it leaks out then you may experience what you are talking about. I've also had issues with strange noises in cold weather because of ice buildup, once the ice breaks or melts away then then noise disappears.
@EricTheCarGuy Thank you very much! And thanks for all the uploads, very well edited, narrated and I appreciate that you take the time to get in there and show what's happening up close. Sincerely, thank you.
Eric, Awesome as usual. The only thing I can add is that many of the strut compressors, like the one you used also come with a little set of hooks that wraps around the top of the compressor and keep it from being able to slip off the way yours did. Thanks again!
@syphilistic I've even seen these sold at auto parts stores, you can find them just about anywhere. They type you have is much safer and preferable. You can also use zip ties or vice grips to hold the tool in place so that it doesn't slide around. Thanks for the comment.
You make the installation of the lower fork bolt look so easy. On my Integra Type R I had to get my Dad to push down on the whole suspension arm to make it so I could push the bolt through.
@nevarezga Yea having the right tools makes all the difference. You might also consider quick struts which come as complete assemblies that don't need to be compressed, you just take out the old assembly and replace it with a new one.
@texan176 Vigors broke springs all the time but they don't normally cause a noise over bumps. THAT is more likely one of 2 things, broken stabilizer links or a loose ball joint. As for broken springs look for orange dust or parts of the spring where the coating looks 'impregnated'.
@livingaction Shocks don't have anything to do with ride height, they just control the "bounce" of the wheel. Springs hold the car up and are responsible for ride height, if you have a car that leans as you describe changing out the springs should do the trick to get it level again.
@MsMilkytheclown That sucks. FYI you really don't need to re-align the van after replacing those struts as they don't have any adjustments on them that would require adjustment. Good luck.
@klfer Personally I'm not a fan of KYB struts for Hondas because they don't ride the same. To answer your question rear struts don't have nearly the kinetic energy the front struts do so it is possible to do them without a spring compressor but it's much easier if you do. If nothing else you might lock the coils with zip ties or something to make sure you don't get hurt though. Thanks for the comment.
Hey Erick, I just want to let you that this video helped me so much. I was able to install my front and rear struts on my 97 Honda Civic. Thanks a million!!!!
This video was a big reason I bought a plate-style compressor from ebay. Far more progressive and safer. I've used it a number of times now on family cars, and loaned it to several friends. Non claw-type spring compressors for me!
@PQPLAYER92 It probably is a spring problem as springs control the ride height of the vehicle. If it's broken you should be able to see it quite easily but if you don't see any broken parts then you may have one that's just worn out and needs to be replaced. You replace springs in pairs BTW not one at a time. Good luck.
@Lafue108 Not true in my experience, if you only grab a couple of coils you will not be able to compress the spring enough to remove the upper strut mount safely let alone have enough room to install the new strut. Honda springs have always been an issue with this that is the reason I recommend using the wall mounted spring compressor as it is much safer. Thanks for the comment.
@BboyTechnica Not exactly sure what you are asking but there is a big difference between the front and rear struts on that car so they should be easy to identify.
@uncleboring Next time try taking the axle nut off and taking the axle out of the hub to help prevent that from happening in the future. I like your description of the situation as I've been there a time or 2 myself. Your methods of getting the upper nut loose, ingenious, well done.
@jjashik7 If there was a rubber shim (and I don't think there was) you have to reuse it. I DON'T recommend KYB struts as they don't ride as well as OE. I hate to say it but OE struts really are the best and I haven't found a suitable replacement that doesn't compromise the ride on a Honda. I show in the Honda strut replacement video how to set up the strut to get it close for reassembly, you might want to check that one out for the answer to your second question. Good luck.
@hugot231 A very big difference as on most cars the front springs are a lot heavier duty than the rear because they bear most of the weight. I would recommend comparing them to the old springs before installing them.
@akamyth88 I've seen those and your right, they are much safer. My preferred tool is the spring compressor that you saw a pic of in the video, nice leverage and very safe compared to what you see here. Thanks for the comment and weighing in.
@cagmito76 There are a couple of other tools out there that would work and do cost less than the $700 I showed in the video. I used the compressors that I did in the video because they are what I had and the most common that I have seen out there. I think there is a nice tool for around $50 that works very well and is much safer than the ones I used in this video.
@evo8FQ400 Sounds like it could be a bad ball joint, try pushing down on the side of the car you suspect the noise is coming from, if you hear the noise this may be a ball joint issue. For it's replacement see the Axle Ball Joint Replacement video. If it's not that check the brakes.
@FITVANITY11 A camber correction kit is only necessary if the car has been lowered. When the car is lowered the camber is effected and those kit's provide the answer. After you install the control arms you will need to have it aligned to make sure the tires wear correctly. If you broke the screws off don't worry you don't need them. If you want to know how to get them out I did a video on it.
Thanks Eric. I have been around car repair all my life but never really understood what struts are. Getting them replaced on my 2009 Honda Fit. I have zero intention of doing myself, but wanted to understand what they are, how they work and what my local (great) mechanic has to do.
@uncleboring I think I worked on one Peugeot years ago and was scared by the experience so I'm not surprised you need to go through such lengths to get a strut out. Thanks for your comment.
@SanFranWay Yea, been there and to be honest your kind of screwed no matter what because when you go to heat that bolt it is actually encased inside of a rubber bushing that will catch on fire and get damaged as you go to remove it. I've actually had instances where I've had to cut the bolt out from the strut and replace the lower control arm, not fun. BTW not reverse thread.
@fastcars001 To be honest I don't know the brand but these are available at Harbor Freight I think, I've also seen them in some auto parts stores. I recommend locking them off with zip ties or vice grips to keep them from slipping to make them a little safer. Good luck and thanks for the comment.
@EnzoElite It is good practice to replace those parts you asked about in pairs. However it is not necessary but you should in order to maintain the symmetry you describe.
Eric The Car Guy is a pro and knows what he's doing. To the DIYSers don't ever use that type spring compressor on struts with a strong spring (most of them). i would only use those type if I had no other way out.I put a cable clamp (looks like a small muffler clamp) on the down side to prevent slipping. To tighten bushings place a jack stand safely under the control arm. Lower vehicle just untill ths suspension components are in alignment then tighten. I had a flashback when that thing flew.
@AFrattz1 Struts control ride height and suspension travel, not steering. If you have bad upper control arms that's a good place to start, you might want to watch the video I did on the axle ball joint replacement, I show how to check the suspension for looseness. Once you get the new parts on it's not a bad idea to get it aligned. Don't forget to make sure your tire pressures are correct as well.
Eric, Great video! I have an 02 civic w/83K on it, and she's getting tired "legs". I was especially impressed with your ability to recreate the lousy lighting I typically have when working on her, haha. Thanks again and be well!
Sometimes you just have to concede your abilities and not having the right tools for this is very limiting and potentially dangerous. Thanks for the comment.
@syphilistic Not really, remember that it is also going to make contact with the top of the strut when it is compressed anyway so it really doesn't matter where it is placed as long as it gets put back in. Thanks for the comment.
Thanks so much for this video. I was able to change the struts with only a little difficulty. The spring compressor slipped a little on the second strut but I managed to re-adjust. I took your warnings seriously.
@jbpost52 It's actually easier to replace the lower control arm as those bushings can be a real pain. However that may not be the source of your problem, it would be advisable to do a thorough inspection of the suspension to find the cause before you replace anymore parts, in your case I would be looking at the stabilizer links to see if they are loose.
@papitoyota I've done videos on both replacement of the boots and replacement of the axle, in my opinion I would replace the axle and not bother with the boots but it's your choice really. Good luck.
@Shazee083 Well I suppose it's how you look at it for how hard a job it is. You really don't use a torque wrench for this operation and the tools can be rented from auto parts stores or you can buy complete assemblies so you don't have to do any compressing of springs.
@scottaner500 That sucks glad he's OK. I wish I would have mentioned in the video that you can secure the tool with zip ties or vice grips to help prevent that from happening.
@EricTheCarGuy L spring was broken into 3 pieces, and the R into 2. The job's done- took ~12 hours. Took two pairs of compressors. Sway bar link nut was a major pain to remove as the lower nut wouldn't allow a ratchet to fit. Had to eventually dremel it off, after rounding the edges. (gotta get myself some 6-point wrenches - the 12 rounds too easily when stuck). The kyb struts feel fine, tho I'm sure you're right about OE. I still don't get why honda doesn't spec a bottom shim. Thanks Eric.
@teawins21 It probably won't either, I've run into this may times before and it usually ends up with the same thing, replacing the lower control arm or the bushing within it as the bolt has seized to the inside of the bushing and will not likely come out no matter what you do.
one of your best Eric. or maybe I'm just partial to Honda's. when that spring let go it was like trick photography one second its there next frame it's gone. this part should be mandatory viewing for anyone doing Honda springs . thanks again you put your ass on the line on this one .
Very nice video my friend . I am sure You made lots of guys happy out there, including myself . I am ready now to change one strut even in the front of an 747 jumbo jet witch is one of my favorites toys. Thanks for the great video .
Great video like always Eric! For the folks who like their hands and limbs, the do sell these as complete units so they just pop in and out. After looking into it, that's the way I'm going to go...
@BaiaGirl77 I set out to accomplish 2 things when I started ETCG, teach people how to do their own repairs and second help those that were not interested or could not do their own repairs have a better understanding of what needed to be done. Your comment means a lot thanks.
@TheJackhammer81 Yes Acura's are Hondas, Acura is only in north america everywhere else in the world they just call them Honda's. Thanks for your comment.
@Jeffmtbr Exactly, they are not available for all makes and this is more of a way of showing what needs to be done should you not have quick struts. I've actually recommended them several times in the comments below. Thanks for the comment.
Thanks for the comment. I've also seen people use zip ties to hold the clamps in place. These are things I wish I thought of when I did the shooting. Too much in my head to keep track of.
Educational, entertaining! Doing mechanical work is one thing, but being able to film while doing mechanical work is a whole 'nother story. Awesome job!!
No, not at home. I've had this garage for years but it is across town from where I live. I hope to find a new place closer to home with more room and a lift at some point.
Very Informative, Thanks for stressing the springs potentials. My buddy has a steel plate in his head from a sprung spring from a strut assembly. Eric is correct... it's dangerous.....
@SystemXpander You will need it to remove the stock springs but in my experience you can just put shorter springs in without having to compress them in most cases, it really depends on how much shorter they are.
@ThinkerMister11 You could have a shop change out the struts but you might also consider a set of quick struts which come preassembled. I don't do price estimates sorry.
@Big10or11 Suspension and alignment would have nothing to do with that unless it was severely out. You may have a driveline issue so I would check the inner CV joints and transmission. Also don't rule out an engine performance issue just to be safe.
@according2plan95 That would be a good video, if one shows up and I have time I'd be happy to make a video. I normally use a long pry bar for that job, then the fun really begins when you try to put the bolt back in. Good luck.
@carlsaintjohn That's probably because it was broken, it probably would have done the same thing off of the car. Remember these springs hold up 1/4 of the vehicles weight.
I have the same compressor that I have used on the 4 struts of a 97 Contour, and on the front struts of an 04 Taurus. That Taurus was scary. We had to buy a second set of compressors to get tension off the strut hat/bearing plate. I do not prefer the design of Ford suspensions when it comes to servicing components. Great videos, +1 subscriber.
@teawins21 I hate to tell you this but that story normally ends with replacing the lower control arm as there really is no way of breaking that loose from the inside of that bushing, at least I haven't found a good method yet.
ERIC, just seeing this video for the first time now in 2018. If you still perform the strut changes like this, I would like to make one very safe suggestion. Always have a heavy line such as a boat line handy. Tie the strut compressors together at approximately the center line point of the threads on both sides facing away from you. You can use a bowline type knot so the rope is not too tight on the threads. If they ever release like they do in this video, they will be held together in sync and will just drop down versus popping out to the sides. Was taught this back in 1982 working on my 82 Accord by my buddy and local Honda shop foreman who taught me pretty much everything I know about cars for the next 30+ years after. Hope this helps.
I'm pretty sure he wasn't supposed to release the tension without something to prevent the compressor from sliding around the spring under so much weight. He created his own problem from the beginning. You can see he install the compressor arms crooked from the start. Stupid.
@@MrSupernova111it's only stupid if you get hurt. If you don't get hurt then it's a learning moment.
I've found that none of these internet mechanics are experts in all things automotive mechanicals. They all make mistakes, none of them do it the right way all the time.
The best part though is that when they screw up, you learn what not to do if you happen to need to do that job. And many persons, such as yourself included, offer excellent advice, making every viewer even safer. You should always learn from your mistakes, but it's much safer and less painful to learn from other people's mistakes.
Im from utah and they use this guys videos on their tablets for convicts trying to straighten up their lifes and learn about automotive repair before theyre released....
Ive enjoyed these videos
Nice! Way to fight the system!
@@MissouriMatthew thanks i figured when life gives u lemons...
Fix a rear axle.. 😆
So glad that you are showing this method. I did this 30 years ago on a car and realized how dangerous it was back then. It was on a Datsun 510. Now that I am older and wiser I will take the strut to a shop and have them replace the spring for me.
Wow. I’ve never seen your bench look so messy. I do have to say I miss these old videos. But I’m happy you are where you are now. You deserve it. Thank you for all your great shows.
what happened to him?
I struggled for three hours trying to get the struts off. Then I watched your video and I went and removed them in a fraction of the time. This video has save me a lot of aggravation and time. Thanks for the informative useful how to video.
Couldn't figure out why the control arm bushing looked like it was binding. It wasn't until after watching this, that I realized the locating tab wasn't where it should be. I readjusted the fork on the shock and now everything seems to be in line. Thanks for sharing that little tid-bit. 😎
i bought my struts with the springs already preloaded. saved alot of time and is much safer imo. Spring compression tools are expensive and dangerous to use. Thank you for posting this video, instead of paying a mechanic to do my struts, my uncle and myself were able to do this with the help of this video and save 4 or 5 hundred dollars on labor
This is so handy and I will tackle this tomorrow. My car is very bouncy and unsafe. Eric the Car Guy Rocks! Thanks to him I've been able to do a lot of work on my Honda CRX. He's inspired me and showed me I can do so much for myself. I've found cordless Impact Tools are also great if you have a crappy compressor.
I told you this one was better than the other one, drama, makes for good viewing. I was worried it would come apart so I stood WAY back when I hit it with the impact. I've never been hit but I've know guys who were and they are scared for life.
It's fun going back to watch these old videos mostly to see how far Eric has come... back then he was practically working in a dungeon.
Whenever im looking up a Honda maintenance vid, and i see you have a one, i get happy and feel better about doing the job. Thanks eric
I've been cautioned by several techs against using air tools when doing this job, more specifically when installing the upper strut mount. Foolishly, I chose to ignore that.
Lo and behold, when installing aftermarket KYB struts on my Prelude, my buddy used an air tool and snapped the strut.
Can't tell you how helpful your videos have been. I've gotten stuck numerous times in my years with this Honda and it never fails you always have a how to video for it. This week it was struts. Thanks
@DJYIC I'm not sure if water could get INTO a strut but if I've learned anything working on cars it's that just about anything is possible. There are a lot of things that struts do for you besides a smoother ride, they also help decrease stopping distance as well as help maintain traction, if you suspect a problem with them it should not be taken lightly.
Say Eric I really appreicate and enjoy your instructional videos on the Honda, I've been the pitt crue for my wife for over 71 years. But you are the go to guy for me with her Honda Accord LX 93, thank you for TH-cam moreover thank you dude.
I did a strut replacement(first one I've ever done I might add, lots of head scratching and trial and error, wish I would have found this video) on a CRV a month or so ago. I borrowed the compressors from my neighbor, he has the exact same kind you have. We had a terrible time with them twisting all over, but when we used 3 it was much more even, I'm guessing because the tension is distributed by 2 instead of 3. Thanks for the video!
@MustangFan424 Not sure I agree with you because if you use a ratchet you will be applying a twisting force to the spring tool which might cause it to walk to one side, I think the gun applies an even consistent force thus helping to eliminate that problem.I've never cracked a strut tower putting them in but it is possible,after working with air tools a while I think u develop a feel for them and u know how much to tighten things without damage but it does happen on occasion as u pointed out.
Great video! I've done Honda strut installs many times as well. To preload the lower control arm at 9:05 for tightening the thru bolt, I jack the arm up. I found it to be an easy way to do so without lowering the car onto its wheels.
Thanks for the comment. Yea, springs letting go makes for exciting video. In a way I'm glad it happened on camera so that the viewers could see the potential danger.
@nolly72 You are correct that is a camber angle issue and on that car there is no adjustment so it's most likely a ride height issue which would be controlled by the springs. If the springs are broken or not the springs that came on the car then this could be the cause. If the car is lowered then you might look into a camber correction kit.
@DJYIC They don't "collect water" per se but they are filled with oil, if the oil is cold or some of it leaks out then you may experience what you are talking about. I've also had issues with strange noises in cold weather because of ice buildup, once the ice breaks or melts away then then noise disappears.
@EricTheCarGuy Thank you very much! And thanks for all the uploads, very well edited, narrated and I appreciate that you take the time to get in there and show what's happening up close. Sincerely, thank you.
Just picked up a 90 honda wagon. This video gave me a good idea of what's in store for me. Thanks again Eric, you are a youtube treasure.
Eric,
Awesome as usual. The only thing I can add is that many of the strut compressors, like the one you used also come with a little set of hooks that wraps around the top of the compressor and keep it from being able to slip off the way yours did. Thanks again!
@syphilistic I've even seen these sold at auto parts stores, you can find them just about anywhere. They type you have is much safer and preferable. You can also use zip ties or vice grips to hold the tool in place so that it doesn't slide around. Thanks for the comment.
You make the installation of the lower fork bolt look so easy. On my Integra Type R I had to get my Dad to push down on the whole suspension arm to make it so I could push the bolt through.
yes, thats why you gotta do 75 pushups at the minimum.
@nevarezga Yea having the right tools makes all the difference. You might also consider quick struts which come as complete assemblies that don't need to be compressed, you just take out the old assembly and replace it with a new one.
You are truly the best when it comes to auto. I wish to see more Honda/Acura models.
@texan176 Vigors broke springs all the time but they don't normally cause a noise over bumps. THAT is more likely one of 2 things, broken stabilizer links or a loose ball joint. As for broken springs look for orange dust or parts of the spring where the coating looks 'impregnated'.
Those spring compressors you're using are scaring the shit out of me
D=
@livingaction Shocks don't have anything to do with ride height, they just control the "bounce" of the wheel. Springs hold the car up and are responsible for ride height, if you have a car that leans as you describe changing out the springs should do the trick to get it level again.
@MsMilkytheclown That sucks. FYI you really don't need to re-align the van after replacing those struts as they don't have any adjustments on them that would require adjustment. Good luck.
@denelvo Thanks for the tip, I've mentioned that in some of the comments as well. Thanks for your input and comment.
@klfer Personally I'm not a fan of KYB struts for Hondas because they don't ride the same. To answer your question rear struts don't have nearly the kinetic energy the front struts do so it is possible to do them without a spring compressor but it's much easier if you do. If nothing else you might lock the coils with zip ties or something to make sure you don't get hurt though. Thanks for the comment.
As in the past videos, I enjoyed every part of the video. Thanks for posting Eric!
Hey Erick, I just want to let you that this video helped me so much. I was able to install my front and rear struts on my 97 Honda Civic. Thanks a million!!!!
This video was a big reason I bought a plate-style compressor from ebay. Far more progressive and safer. I've used it a number of times now on family cars, and loaned it to several friends. Non claw-type spring compressors for me!
@PQPLAYER92 It probably is a spring problem as springs control the ride height of the vehicle. If it's broken you should be able to see it quite easily but if you don't see any broken parts then you may have one that's just worn out and needs to be replaced. You replace springs in pairs BTW not one at a time. Good luck.
@ltcolsin2025 That's quite a run you must be good at your work for sure. Thanks very much for your comment I really appreciate it.
@Lafue108 Not true in my experience, if you only grab a couple of coils you will not be able to compress the spring enough to remove the upper strut mount safely let alone have enough room to install the new strut. Honda springs have always been an issue with this that is the reason I recommend using the wall mounted spring compressor as it is much safer. Thanks for the comment.
@BboyTechnica Not exactly sure what you are asking but there is a big difference between the front and rear struts on that car so they should be easy to identify.
@uncleboring Next time try taking the axle nut off and taking the axle out of the hub to help prevent that from happening in the future. I like your description of the situation as I've been there a time or 2 myself. Your methods of getting the upper nut loose, ingenious, well done.
@jjashik7 If there was a rubber shim (and I don't think there was) you have to reuse it. I DON'T recommend KYB struts as they don't ride as well as OE. I hate to say it but OE struts really are the best and I haven't found a suitable replacement that doesn't compromise the ride on a Honda. I show in the Honda strut replacement video how to set up the strut to get it close for reassembly, you might want to check that one out for the answer to your second question. Good luck.
@hugot231 A very big difference as on most cars the front springs are a lot heavier duty than the rear because they bear most of the weight. I would recommend comparing them to the old springs before installing them.
@akamyth88 I've seen those and your right, they are much safer. My preferred tool is the spring compressor that you saw a pic of in the video, nice leverage and very safe compared to what you see here. Thanks for the comment and weighing in.
@cagmito76 There are a couple of other tools out there that would work and do cost less than the $700 I showed in the video. I used the compressors that I did in the video because they are what I had and the most common that I have seen out there. I think there is a nice tool for around $50 that works very well and is much safer than the ones I used in this video.
@evo8FQ400 Sounds like it could be a bad ball joint, try pushing down on the side of the car you suspect the noise is coming from, if you hear the noise this may be a ball joint issue. For it's replacement see the Axle Ball Joint Replacement video. If it's not that check the brakes.
@FITVANITY11 A camber correction kit is only necessary if the car has been lowered. When the car is lowered the camber is effected and those kit's provide the answer. After you install the control arms you will need to have it aligned to make sure the tires wear correctly. If you broke the screws off don't worry you don't need them. If you want to know how to get them out I did a video on it.
Thanks Eric. I have been around car repair all my life but never really understood what struts are. Getting them replaced on my 2009 Honda Fit. I have zero intention of doing myself, but wanted to understand what they are, how they work and what my local (great) mechanic has to do.
@uncleboring I think I worked on one Peugeot years ago and was scared by the experience so I'm not surprised you need to go through such lengths to get a strut out. Thanks for your comment.
@SanFranWay Yea, been there and to be honest your kind of screwed no matter what because when you go to heat that bolt it is actually encased inside of a rubber bushing that will catch on fire and get damaged as you go to remove it. I've actually had instances where I've had to cut the bolt out from the strut and replace the lower control arm, not fun. BTW not reverse thread.
@fastcars001 To be honest I don't know the brand but these are available at Harbor Freight I think, I've also seen them in some auto parts stores. I recommend locking them off with zip ties or vice grips to keep them from slipping to make them a little safer. Good luck and thanks for the comment.
@EnzoElite It is good practice to replace those parts you asked about in pairs. However it is not necessary but you should in order to maintain the symmetry you describe.
@syphilistic Good eye. I didn't replace them this time, there were many other more pressing things this car needed, runs like new now.
Eric The Car Guy is a pro and knows what he's doing. To the DIYSers don't ever use that type spring compressor on struts with a strong spring (most of them). i would only use those type if I had no other way out.I put a cable clamp (looks like a small muffler clamp) on the down side to prevent slipping. To tighten bushings place a jack stand safely under the control arm. Lower vehicle just untill ths suspension components are in alignment then tighten. I had a flashback when that thing flew.
@AFrattz1 Struts control ride height and suspension travel, not steering. If you have bad upper control arms that's a good place to start, you might want to watch the video I did on the axle ball joint replacement, I show how to check the suspension for looseness. Once you get the new parts on it's not a bad idea to get it aligned. Don't forget to make sure your tire pressures are correct as well.
Eric, Great video! I have an 02 civic w/83K on it, and she's getting tired "legs". I was especially impressed with your ability to recreate the lousy lighting I typically have when working on her, haha. Thanks again and be well!
Sometimes you just have to concede your abilities and not having the right tools for this is very limiting and potentially dangerous. Thanks for the comment.
@tookimonster333 Glad you got it sorted out, I think 3 would work a lot better, thanks for the comment.
@syphilistic Not really, remember that it is also going to make contact with the top of the strut when it is compressed anyway so it really doesn't matter where it is placed as long as it gets put back in. Thanks for the comment.
Thanks so much for this video. I was able to change the struts with only a little difficulty. The spring compressor slipped a little on the second strut but I managed to re-adjust. I took your warnings seriously.
@jbpost52 It's actually easier to replace the lower control arm as those bushings can be a real pain. However that may not be the source of your problem, it would be advisable to do a thorough inspection of the suspension to find the cause before you replace anymore parts, in your case I would be looking at the stabilizer links to see if they are loose.
@papitoyota I've done videos on both replacement of the boots and replacement of the axle, in my opinion I would replace the axle and not bother with the boots but it's your choice really. Good luck.
@Iceknight905 Nice, I'm glad the video helped you. Thanks for the comment.
@Shazee083 Well I suppose it's how you look at it for how hard a job it is. You really don't use a torque wrench for this operation and the tools can be rented from auto parts stores or you can buy complete assemblies so you don't have to do any compressing of springs.
@scottaner500 That sucks glad he's OK. I wish I would have mentioned in the video that you can secure the tool with zip ties or vice grips to help prevent that from happening.
@EricTheCarGuy L spring was broken into 3 pieces, and the R into 2. The job's done- took ~12 hours. Took two pairs of compressors. Sway bar link nut was a major pain to remove as the lower nut wouldn't allow a ratchet to fit. Had to eventually dremel it off, after rounding the edges. (gotta get myself some 6-point wrenches - the 12 rounds too easily when stuck). The kyb struts feel fine, tho I'm sure you're right about OE. I still don't get why honda doesn't spec a bottom shim. Thanks Eric.
Great videos!!! thanks Erick. Here is where i watched how to replace the disc rotor breaks and more. Thank you. Keep up with videos. Thanks again.
Thanks for the comment. Lubricants would be a great topic, thanks for the suggestion.
@teawins21 It probably won't either, I've run into this may times before and it usually ends up with the same thing, replacing the lower control arm or the bushing within it as the bolt has seized to the inside of the bushing and will not likely come out no matter what you do.
one of your best Eric. or maybe I'm just partial to Honda's. when that spring let go it was like trick photography one second its there next frame it's gone. this part should be mandatory viewing for anyone doing Honda springs . thanks again you put your ass on the line on this one .
Very nice video my friend .
I am sure You made lots of guys happy out there, including myself .
I am ready now to change one strut even in the front of an 747 jumbo jet witch is one of my favorites toys.
Thanks for the great video .
Great video like always Eric! For the folks who like their hands and limbs, the do sell these as complete units so they just pop in and out. After looking into it, that's the way I'm going to go...
@halfbonkers You can hold the tool in place with vice grips or zip ties. Your right, it is dangerous without the right tools.
@trkstr400 I haven't heard of the company but quick struts may be the way to go as they would save you a lot of time and be much safer.
@BaiaGirl77 I set out to accomplish 2 things when I started ETCG, teach people how to do their own repairs and second help those that were not interested or could not do their own repairs have a better understanding of what needed to be done. Your comment means a lot thanks.
Awesome Eric! Thanks for the excellent presentation - Honda Front Struts.
@TheJackhammer81 Yes Acura's are Hondas, Acura is only in north america everywhere else in the world they just call them Honda's. Thanks for your comment.
Nice video. I particularly like that you did a voice over cuz other videos are hard to follow due to all the background noise and ad-lib instructions.
Glad I could help, thanks for the comment.
@Jeffmtbr Exactly, they are not available for all makes and this is more of a way of showing what needs to be done should you not have quick struts. I've actually recommended them several times in the comments below. Thanks for the comment.
Thanks for the comment. I've also seen people use zip ties to hold the clamps in place. These are things I wish I thought of when I did the shooting. Too much in my head to keep track of.
@HondaHowTo1 It's worked for me for many years. Thanks for the comment.
FINALLY!! A clear video for how to replace your struts!
Thx man!
Educational, entertaining! Doing mechanical work is one thing, but being able to film while doing mechanical work is a whole 'nother story. Awesome job!!
No, not at home. I've had this garage for years but it is across town from where I live. I hope to find a new place closer to home with more room and a lift at some point.
Very Informative, Thanks for stressing the springs potentials. My buddy has a steel plate in his head from a sprung spring from a strut assembly. Eric is correct... it's dangerous.....
@SystemXpander You will need it to remove the stock springs but in my experience you can just put shorter springs in without having to compress them in most cases, it really depends on how much shorter they are.
@EnzoElite Your very welcome. Thanks for that comment, it means a great deal.
Great video, made me realize what I did wrong. Thanks for sharing this.
@ThinkerMister11 You could have a shop change out the struts but you might also consider a set of quick struts which come preassembled. I don't do price estimates sorry.
@Big10or11 Suspension and alignment would have nothing to do with that unless it was severely out. You may have a driveline issue so I would check the inner CV joints and transmission. Also don't rule out an engine performance issue just to be safe.
@BITE0ME9 I replaced the spring too, if your not replacing the spring you don't have to uncompress them.
@409na Suspension travel and ride quality suffer but it's a cheep way to lower a car but it often causes more problems than anything else.
@according2plan95 That would be a good video, if one shows up and I have time I'd be happy to make a video. I normally use a long pry bar for that job, then the fun really begins when you try to put the bolt back in. Good luck.
dude i dont even own a car but i cant stop watching your videos.....great job
@carlsaintjohn That's probably because it was broken, it probably would have done the same thing off of the car. Remember these springs hold up 1/4 of the vehicles weight.
I have the same compressor that I have used on the 4 struts of a 97 Contour, and on the front struts of an 04 Taurus. That Taurus was scary. We had to buy a second set of compressors to get tension off the strut hat/bearing plate. I do not prefer the design of Ford suspensions when it comes to servicing components. Great videos, +1 subscriber.
No worries there, I still have a bunch to edit yet. Thanks for the comment.
@teawins21 I hate to tell you this but that story normally ends with replacing the lower control arm as there really is no way of breaking that loose from the inside of that bushing, at least I haven't found a good method yet.