This might be the most REAL video I've seen on car maintenance. Not only did you talk about the things that could go wrong, you demonstrated what wrong looks like. And all of these things can happen to the newby and the experienced weekend warrior. A++ video. I'd give it two thumbs up if I could.
Had new tires put on my truck last year at a shop and they over tightened the lug nuts. My impact wrench would not loosen them, broke the lug wrench and a breaker bar before it was all done.
Regarding bolt placement; I'm just a backyard mechanic. I take pictures of everything before I start taking things apart. They also have some great hydraulic spring compressors for the money this day and age. Also, I don't know it all. I've learned a lot from watching your videos. In demonstrating the do nots you did a great job of trying to look unprofessional. 😂 Thx
That's gotta be one of the best how not to get hurt vids I've ever seen 😆 I've been mechanic for 35+ years and have actually made a couple of these mistakes myself.
Excellent job on this video, both concept and content. Really appreciate the way you included the safety aspects using humor while keeping focus on the potential hazards of doing the task improperly without being "preachy". Len, outstanding job of letting your personality come through, really helps in maintaining viewer interest in the subject matter. As a former US Navy F-14 maintenance instructor, I appreciate your method of delivering the information in a clear, concise, and memorable method without being too clinical. Bravo Zulu to you!!
I've gone to "mechanics" like this and that's why I started learning how to fix my own stuff. I've come to realize that ASE certified doesn't necessarily carry much weight.
Great video! I'm going to do this job for the first time on my '81 VW pickup. I've never even seen it done anywhere. I think you saved me a lot of grief here, since I didn't even know a lot of what you mentioned ... like that you can buy strut cylinders like I did, but you can also buy the whole assembly with a spring. Or what a spring compressor is for, and how you use it, and how not to wreck up the rest of your car. And that's why I watch lots of videos before starting something new. I think that's definitely the best part of the internet, is all the how-to videos.
This was a real treat to watch! I just recently rebuilt my whole front end suspension with struts, axles, wheel bearings, ball joints and tie rod ends. took me 3 days of work but it was well worth it! Definitely recommend doing the alignment afterwards for sure! The car drives so well down roads now!
Excellent video. Exact advice on what does and can happen. The entire video describes how each driveway repair goes. TH-cam videos make it seem simple until u do it and wind up with every trouble described. Last mess up for me was rear strut removal on a 98 Camry. Thru frustration, I accidentally ripped abs wire. I should of unbolted simple 10mm bolt to add slack and I didn't. I figured hey, it's only a $40 replacement part so no a big deal until I tried removing abs magnet from rear hub. What a monumental huge headache I created..
This is a little off topic but has everything to do with safety and springs looking for a home. I work in a semi tractor fleet shop where everything is big. I caught a newbie trying to take the clamp off of a brake chamber one time without caging it. Glad I stopped him because he was in front of it. If you are not sure what you're doing set pride aside and ask for help. It doesn't take away any man cards. It's not worth your life. I appreciated this video!
Great video, great concept. Too many repair vids make everything look easy and smooth. Some of those guys almost seem like they're more interested in showing off their repair skills than teaching people.
I've wrenched in many shops across the country. Believe it or not, some "pros" treat your car exactly like this. Learn how to fix your own car. NO ONE is going to take care of your car as well as YOU. Excellent video. Thanks! 👍
On some models, especially with torn CV boots. If you allow the rotor assembly to fall, or tip , away from the car at the top...some people do this to get more working space, it will pull the CV joint / drive axle out of the trans. coupler. This can be a bit of work to re-install. On some models the CV joint will come apart inside of the boot, which creates even more work to be sure that none of the components are out of place before re-installing it into the coupler. Best bet it to support the entire rotor axle assembly so it cannot fall down. If it is in the way of strut removal...try turning the steering left or right to gain clearance. If it absolutely must be lowered, then dont go any farther than is needed, and never let it drop unsuspended.
This is incredibly informative. I only see videos of people doing things right so I never know what to expect when things go wrong. Thank you for taking the time to put this together. Makes this channel stand out. Subscribed.
+Jim Bowden Thank you! We love empowering our customers and showing how to perform DIY auto repairs with our high-quality auto parts. 1aau.to/m/Shop-1AAuto-c
Your technical content, mixed with the humor, does a great job of delivering the intended information. I'm still smiling after watching, especially the flopping tire. That poor car sure went through a lot!
+Jeffry Blackmon Thank you! We love empowering our customers and showing how to perform DIY auto repairs with our high-quality auto parts. 1aau.to/m/Shop-1AAuto-c
Fixed my CV axle a month ago and put the axle nut on with an air gun. Wheel bearing went exactly like you said. Wish I watched this before. Great tips for amateurs thanks guys👍
Great video, I just recently replaced my wife’s car front strut and sway bar link. I should have watch you first before doing the job. I learned a lot from your video. Great job.
I once attempted to do all four struts on my mom's 2003 ford explorer with struts I bought from 1AAuto. The new struts were fantastic, but getting the old ones off was a pain in the ace. The front passenger strut came out and the new one went in no problem, but that's as far as i got before i called it quits. The bottom through bolt on the front driver's side strut was rust welded to the inner bushing sleeve and the top nuts on the rear struts were so rusted they didn't even look like nuts anymore. So I gave up and had her take it to a shop. With the special tools they had, they were able to replace the rears with little difficulty, but the front driver's side strut required two hours of heating with a torch before it finally came loose.
Locking pliers, or just non-wrench/socket solutions in general are terrible for fasteners and will end in failure. You would hope someone would wear correct footwear, having dropped brake assembly from a 20 ton aircraft on my foot at one point I can tell you it's memorable and I was fortunate I was wearing steel toed boots. Great info as always 1A!
This guy's my favorite from 1A. With regards to replacing the whole strut or just the shocks. By only doing the shocks I saved at least $100. I have more time than money. All my hardware looked good though & if time is a issue, I of course recommend replacing the unit as a whole.
Thank You. Safety tips like this are excellent - not only for amateurs, but for people who are so experienced that they can get tempted to cut corners - BAD idea.
+Phillip Kapler Thank you! We love empowering our customers and showing how to perform DIY auto repairs with our high-quality auto parts. 1aau.to/m/Shop-1AAuto-c
I personally learned the hard way growing up in my teens. As an adult I know I realized that safety matters. In this video, hopefully enlightens future mechanics to do the same.
A how-to video that is as important to R&R of automotive parts to illustrate what NOT to do! For someone attempting to tackle a new to them repair, this video is just what the doctor (get it) ordered. I've replaced strut assemblies before, but this was very enlightening, notably when I've myself have done some of these mistakes in the past. I can see how valuable this is for the first timers. Nice if there were more of these 'NOT TO DO' video along with the 'HOW TOOs'. Well done and entertaining.
I can see how these videos are necessary for those that don't like to watch the correct how-to video before doing the work. After watching the vehicle specific video first, i saw all of your mistakes before you pointed them out. Thanks for showing what a frustrated diyer looks like doing a rush job repair.
That will work for low and medium mileage cars. But when you start dealing with higher mileage (250k miles or more on factory springs) they start to sag pretty bad so a set of high quality (emphasis on high quality because there are a bunch of crappy ones out there) will be much better than worn originals. But I do agree that in low mileage cases the factory spring is better than a bad aftermarket one.
@@AutoFixYT True story. The replacement springs are usually smaller in diameter and come with less coils. KYB makes a decent quick strut though, and I have had success with the Oreddy brand. Not so much with Monroe
Always try to keep original part's, get your starter and alternator rebuilt locally. Because a lot of times new starter's don't line up right, car collectors, call it numbers matching.
This was great info! Thanks. I have used complete strut assemblies from Monroe that had the top nut torqued down too much, resulting in that crunching/knocking sound during turns. I avoid Monroe as much as possible these days, until their production quality improves. Great safety lessons, now to go put this info to use this afternoon.
Great video I was a professional mechanic for 35 years, and a driveway mechanic for many more years. Of course safety was number one with me. I had a few goof ups, sometimes with cuts or scratches, thank god nothing serious, definitely a wake up call. I recommend your video for anyone working on vehicles, I think your video is more like a public service, THANKS
Changing my back struts in a bit, been watching so many videos and if anything my dad will be making the final exam. Whew! My front struts will be tommorow!
I leave the axle nuts on and run a ratchet strap through the back of the control arm and over the caliper and face of the hub. Keeps the knuckle from falling over and over extending the cv joint and also keep you from tugging on the brake hose and speed sensor harness
I had a mechanic jack up my 1985 300ZX using the driver's side floor pan. This was for a simple front brake caliper inspection. Then they tried to sledge hammer the bulge flat. They ended up paying for the floor pan replacement.
Excellent video, first time I've ever seen demonstrated a sequence of [potential] mistakes for a specific job. It's a great teaching method for all of us and for any manual tasks, so effective. And of course some of these errors resonated personally - for obvious reasons - and I have the scars to prove. Kit [England]
This is hilarious! You should list it under "Fails." I learned auto mechanics the hard way too. Fortunately, cars made in the sixties were pretty simple, and mistakes were less certain. I was a kid and didn't have much money ... no jobs for kids in the South. I once replaced the front axle on my 1965 Saab (Rzeppa type U-joint) with a knuckle type U-joint I salvaged from my step-dad's wrecked 1963 Saab. It was a press fit in the wheel bearing, but I pounded it out with a BFM, and then pounded it into my own car's wheel bearing. Lots of sweat!! It worked fine, except for a slightly limited turning radius (bump, bump, bump.) About 6 months later I overcooked a corner with bald rear tires and a sudden onset of rain (Florida,) and got T-boned by the only tree withing sight.
For many years I used 1/2" impact to install wheels (with reasonable torque and NEVER a problem) Then I decided I wanted to be more conscientious and would lightly zing them on with 3/8", then use torque wrench when the car was on the ground. I used this technique for a few years and then (you guessed it!) ONE time I forgot to torque them. They were 'tight enough' to make it through the road test but loosened up the next day with the customer driving. Fortunately, it was a very understanding customer who was not only capable of tightening them on the road herself but actually laughed at my 'honest mistake.' I'm now back to doing in in one motion with the 1/2".
Len loved your video!! Great humor and great instruction, and tips on how to avoid these serious costly and/or harmful mistakes. The actual examples of what can happen and how it looks are awesome! I have learned a lot from your video. Thank you for taking the time to put together a greatly quality video!
I reviewed your video once again I can tell that I misunderstanding the point here but it seemed like you deliberately doing all those things teaching us something your videos is excellent you're a great teacher
Front struts are not fun. I have never had luck with the spring compressor tool. When my brother and me change front struts we put the car on jack stands and jack up on the brake rotor to relieve tension and take the nut off. Then we slowly lower the control arm with the floor jack and remove the strut. When assembling it we use the floor jack again to jack up the brake rotor and strut with the spring into the tower and keep jacking the rotor up until the bolt studs are fully seated in the tower. Then we put the 3 small nuts and the big nut on the top of the strut. Like I said it is the hard way, but it works.
Ive never laughed so much while watching a mechanic teaching video and at the same time learned so much. I will definitely subscribe I like your wisdom and style
Whenever I buy new tyres I ALWAYS take the car home and undo the wheel nuts. 9 times out of 10 the dipshits at the tyre place have gunned the wheel nuts on and they need a bit of persuasion to get them off. Saved me a couple of times when I've had to change a tyre on the side of the road
I’ve seen this comment many times. Why don’t we insist that the shops install and torque the lug nuts properly in accordance with the manufacturer’s specs? I no longer will bring my car to any shop that gives me a hard time or refuses to do so. Think about it, we pay them way more per hour than what the majority of us make, why can’t we expect and even demand professional service?
One of the most common complaints from females too. Makes it real hard to get it off on the side of the road for them. If they are torqued properly, they usually can get it loose with body weight on the lever if they are lighter weight.
@@scooterp7009 in Australia this is how all tyres and wheels are to be installed. Nuts are rattled on lightly with a calibrated impact driver that slip after right tension is achieved but they are expensive so not always used, and toqued to spec and double checked by A 2nd person to make sure your wheels don't fall off.
I was searching struts for my truck, on google and your video was recommended, enjoyed every bit. Great video for new automotive techs, safety glass, steel toe and Gloves, Only way to go
I am about to replace the struts, swaybar links and bushings. Thank you for this video. I would not have removed the axle nut and just let it hang on the halfshaft. I will also replace the rear shocks because it is logical that if the struts are leaking the rears are probably worn out too.
I have to say, I like this vid, it gives you the idea on how to do it, and shows you a lot of the stupid mistakes people make all the time doing it. Keep it up.
I used to do detail at a Chevy dealer. I can't tell you how many vehicles came through for oil & tire rotation and I've almost never seen a mechanic torque a wheel down, but I've definitely seen a lot of this.. 12:02 It sounds like a damn Nascar pit in the shop lol
Great Video. Very informative with humor. Thanks. With the way prices and inflation are these days, I've purchased some quality tools and have been doing my car repairs and maintenance myself. I do know when something is probably over my head and when to surrender but you guys are a blessing.
Thanks again for an awesome video. Unfortunately for me and many other owners of vehicles like mine (2013 Ford Explorer) there is NOT a replacement strut and shock together. The strut spring comes separate from the strut and shock. Poor design that Ford changed in 2014. If you know of a complete assembly here in Canada it would sure make it easier. Thanks
I'm having similar issue with Toyota Highlander. Only the lesser brands like Monroe or Chinese knock offs are available as complete assembly. The OEM KYBs or Tokico come only as components. So, I've got to either live with less than quality or, do it the hard way. The hard way it is! Luckily I already possess a pair of spring compressors.
Nice video. The young lady doing the shocks and struts install video used what looked like an oxyacetelian torch to remove the rear shocks nuts but you say not to do that - makes sense. Strangely enough the upper bolts on my 22 year old Tundra were rusted shut. I sprayed liquid wrench all over the nuts, tapped them with a hammer for about 30 seconds and came back the next day. A box wrench and a hammer broke the nut and bolt open without damaging anything else.
I love watching Len! I was rolling on the laugh laughing because I have made some of these mistakes before I learned the proper way and acted just like him too 😆🤣😂
Excellent advice and demonstration. The first example is the biggest.....DISTRACTIONS! I often do some troubleshooting and repairs for a friend who is "mechanically declined". Only problem is, if he's there with me he just won't shut up. Very distracting. Not to mention he could hand me my tools, if he would only shut up.
Yeah i never had the benefit of someone to teach me automotive mechanic stuff so I end up diving on YT. The military taught me what I needed to know about non-automotive stuff but there's a wide gap in between those two categories as far as what I need to know.
Very informative video; I like the idea of not only telling people what NOT to do; but showing them how it would affect the surrounding parts IF it were done that way. Great job!
For some reason, I think this is how some "professionals" do it from what I've seen. I have to admit though, I have had an inner cv joint come apart on me once. Recovered, and learned a lesson.
Worst thing about inner cv joint coming out is, even if you can get it back in, there's usually a spring behind the spider, which falls out of position if it's over extended, so you have to pull the boot to get it back where it belongs. You only have to do that once to learn that lesson.
This video is GENIUS! Glad you weren't injured showing us your comedy of errors. I learned that is definitely worth paying an EXPERIENCED professional.
I’m not doing this job again at home. The spring compressor they rent at auto parts stores,are more frightening than some horror films.. My car was so out of alignment after that ,I could only drive 10 mph to the tire place.
I always rent two sets of compressors. Using three compressors on a spring is much safer and slowly compressing them all equally stops them from shifting on the spring.
My alignment place was impressed they were like I can't believe how close you got on youre alignment after replacing the whole suspension, I did tierods strut, bearing, a arm and links. We only had to adjust one tie rod a 1/4 turn and snug the other one up, I did not have tools to tighten right like who has 23mms (I drove 20mph cause they were prob 30 nm but it drove straight, still don't know what tool I needed for the tierod boot straps so I'll be replacing the zip ties once a year after the winter when they should see the most abuse. Once I have 2nd car I'll be doing my rear struts and bearings, but my struts were leaking and one bearing was bad and needed front brakes.
Unfortunately some of us have cars that don’t have full assemblies available and gotta rebuild them ourselves :/ thanks for showing us how to safely do this job!
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Hi Sir . How much does it cost to replace 4 Struts for 2012 Honda Accord? Thank you
P.
This might be the most REAL video I've seen on car maintenance. Not only did you talk about the things that could go wrong, you demonstrated what wrong looks like. And all of these things can happen to the newby and the experienced weekend warrior. A++ video. I'd give it two thumbs up if I could.
for those of us who tend to learn the hard way, it’s nice to see what not to do as well as how to do it
This was hilarious, but the best part, is I actually learned a few things, which is scary lol
Same here! Lol!
Same but my intuition told me not to or to do most of this. But I definitely didn't realize how annoying it'd actually be
I have done struts before.... now I realized all the could have gone wrong! excellent video
Well done, unfortunately many shops are over-tightening everything with an impact wrench.
+cardo Thanks for checking us out! 1aau.to/m/Shop-1AAuto-c
A cross threaded bolt is a tight bolt
Had new tires put on my truck last year at a shop and they over tightened the lug nuts. My impact wrench would not loosen them, broke the lug wrench and a breaker bar before it was all done.
@@aaronshirk746 I had that same problem with my old Grand Am, and I too, broke a breaker bar on it.
@summs S Me too. Its just sheer lazy not to get the torque wrench out. I redo all nuts when I get home from tyre change to the proper setting.
Regarding bolt placement; I'm just a backyard mechanic. I take pictures of everything before I start taking things apart.
They also have some great hydraulic spring compressors for the money this day and age.
Also,
I don't know it all. I've learned a lot from watching your videos.
In demonstrating the do nots you did a great job of trying to look unprofessional. 😂
Thx
We need to add this video to every shop for legal reasons and automotive technician school. There are some careless people out there
this dude is so relatable. he should be making more videos. really enjoyed watching him
That's gotta be one of the best how not to get hurt vids I've ever seen 😆 I've been mechanic for 35+ years and have actually made a couple of these mistakes myself.
+Chuck Miskel Thanks for watching, we're glad you liked it!
Excellent job on this video, both concept and content. Really appreciate the way you included the safety aspects using humor while keeping focus on the potential hazards of doing the task improperly without being "preachy". Len, outstanding job of letting your personality come through, really helps in maintaining viewer interest in the subject matter. As a former US Navy F-14 maintenance instructor, I appreciate your method of delivering the information in a clear, concise, and memorable method without being too clinical. Bravo Zulu to you!!
I've gone to "mechanics" like this and that's why I started learning how to fix my own stuff. I've come to realize that ASE certified doesn't necessarily carry much weight.
this is why most of the auto services suck (in the whole world nowadays)
Great video! I'm going to do this job for the first time on my '81 VW pickup. I've never even seen it done anywhere. I think you saved me a lot of grief here, since I didn't even know a lot of what you mentioned ... like that you can buy strut cylinders like I did, but you can also buy the whole assembly with a spring. Or what a spring compressor is for, and how you use it, and how not to wreck up the rest of your car. And that's why I watch lots of videos before starting something new. I think that's definitely the best part of the internet, is all the how-to videos.
Scotty would yell praises about how that Toyota held up to your torture
😂😂 facts
These things can take a serious abuse and stil be fine
Facts lol
My favorite mechanic at 1A Auto lol so fun to watch!
💯🤣🤣🤣🤣
This channel has saved me so much money
This was a real treat to watch! I just recently rebuilt my whole front end suspension with struts, axles, wheel bearings, ball joints and tie rod ends. took me 3 days of work but it was well worth it! Definitely recommend doing the alignment afterwards for sure! The car drives so well down roads now!
Lmao took me 3 days too. Felt discouraged at some points but man was it a good feeling finishing it all by myself!!
I have just replaced my coil spring part and it still makes brief clunk noise when going over bumps and when turning .
@@bloved8121 That sounds like a ball joint issue.
Excellent video. Exact advice on what does and can happen. The entire video describes how each driveway repair goes. TH-cam videos make it seem simple until u do it and wind up with every trouble described. Last mess up for me was rear strut removal on a 98 Camry. Thru frustration, I accidentally ripped abs wire. I should of unbolted simple 10mm bolt to add slack and I didn't. I figured hey, it's only a $40 replacement part so no a big deal until I tried removing abs magnet from rear hub. What a monumental huge headache I created..
This is a little off topic but has everything to do with safety and springs looking for a home. I work in a semi tractor fleet shop where everything is big. I caught a newbie trying to take the clamp off of a brake chamber one time without caging it. Glad I stopped him because he was in front of it. If you are not sure what you're doing set pride aside and ask for help. It doesn't take away any man cards. It's not worth your life. I appreciated this video!
Well done with very real scenarios. Just enough information for amateurs to understand the value of a good mechanic.
I started as a TH-cam mechanic, now I use both TH-cam and haynes manuals, so I learned A LOT from this one lol
The best comedic content by far but with safety in mind while learning how to and what no to do.
Great video, great concept. Too many repair vids make everything look easy and smooth. Some of those guys almost seem like they're more interested in showing off their repair skills than teaching people.
yes
Len and the older lady are the best at 1A auto! Len is in a league of his own my man is a OG
This is why you always go slow with any job and use common sense
I've wrenched in many shops across the country. Believe it or not, some "pros" treat your car exactly like this. Learn how to fix your own car. NO ONE is going to take care of your car as well as YOU. Excellent video. Thanks! 👍
On some models, especially with torn CV boots. If you allow the rotor assembly to fall, or tip , away from the car at the top...some people do this to get more working space, it will pull the CV joint / drive axle out of the trans. coupler. This can be a bit of work to re-install. On some models the CV joint will come apart inside of the boot, which creates even more work to be sure that none of the components are out of place before re-installing it into the coupler. Best bet it to support the entire rotor axle assembly so it cannot fall down. If it is in the way of strut removal...try turning the steering left or right to gain clearance. If it absolutely must be lowered, then dont go any farther than is needed, and never let it drop unsuspended.
This is incredibly informative. I only see videos of people doing things right so I never know what to expect when things go wrong. Thank you for taking the time to put this together. Makes this channel stand out. Subscribed.
+Jim Bowden Thank you! We love empowering our customers and showing how to perform DIY auto repairs with our high-quality auto parts. 1aau.to/m/Shop-1AAuto-c
Talks a little quick for me personally but sooooo darn helpful and detailed. Thank you
2:54 guilty here. I messed up so bad the first time haha. thank you for the videos!
Your teaching technique is great - showing real examples that happen if you do stuff wrong will definitely stay in the viewer's mind. 👍
Your technical content, mixed with the humor, does a great job of delivering the intended information. I'm still smiling after watching, especially the flopping tire. That poor car sure went through a lot!
+Jeffry Blackmon Thank you! We love empowering our customers and showing how to perform DIY auto repairs with our high-quality auto parts. 1aau.to/m/Shop-1AAuto-c
Fixed my CV axle a month ago and put the axle nut on with an air gun. Wheel bearing went exactly like you said. Wish I watched this before. Great tips for amateurs thanks guys👍
Great video, I just recently replaced my wife’s car front strut and sway bar link. I should have watch you first before doing the job. I learned a lot from your video. Great job.
This is the most lovable guy y’all have ever had making videos.
I once attempted to do all four struts on my mom's 2003 ford explorer with struts I bought from 1AAuto. The new struts were fantastic, but getting the old ones off was a pain in the ace. The front passenger strut came out and the new one went in no problem, but that's as far as i got before i called it quits. The bottom through bolt on the front driver's side strut was rust welded to the inner bushing sleeve and the top nuts on the rear struts were so rusted they didn't even look like nuts anymore. So I gave up and had her take it to a shop. With the special tools they had, they were able to replace the rears with little difficulty, but the front driver's side strut required two hours of heating with a torch before it finally came loose.
This really is an excellent video! Very educational to those that may have little experience fixing cars. OUTSTANDING JOB!!
Locking pliers, or just non-wrench/socket solutions in general are terrible for fasteners and will end in failure.
You would hope someone would wear correct footwear, having dropped brake assembly from a 20 ton aircraft on my foot at one point I can tell you it's memorable and I was fortunate I was wearing steel toed boots.
Great info as always 1A!
This guy's my favorite from 1A. With regards to replacing the whole strut or just the shocks. By only doing the shocks I saved at least $100. I have more time than money. All my hardware looked good though & if time is a issue, I of course recommend replacing the unit as a whole.
I would have done the bearings if you were over a certain mileage
Thank You. Safety tips like this are excellent - not only for amateurs, but for people who are so experienced that they can get tempted to cut corners - BAD idea.
+Phillip Kapler Thank you! We love empowering our customers and showing how to perform DIY auto repairs with our high-quality auto parts. 1aau.to/m/Shop-1AAuto-c
I personally learned the hard way growing up in my teens. As an adult I know I realized that safety matters. In this video, hopefully enlightens future mechanics to do the same.
A how-to video that is as important to R&R of automotive parts to illustrate what NOT to do! For someone attempting to tackle a new to them repair, this video is just what the doctor (get it) ordered. I've replaced strut assemblies before, but this was very enlightening, notably when I've myself have done some of these mistakes in the past. I can see how valuable this is for the first timers. Nice if there were more of these 'NOT TO DO' video along with the 'HOW TOOs'. Well done and entertaining.
These are great tips!!! Most other vids show what to do but these videos from 1A show what NOT to do. Great job guys!!!!👍
I can see how these videos are necessary for those that don't like to watch the correct how-to video before doing the work. After watching the vehicle specific video first, i saw all of your mistakes before you pointed them out. Thanks for showing what a frustrated diyer looks like doing a rush job repair.
7:05 Yes. Because unless it's damaged or broken, the original factory spring is going to be superior to most aftermarket replacements.
That will work for low and medium mileage cars. But when you start dealing with higher mileage (250k miles or more on factory springs) they start to sag pretty bad so a set of high quality (emphasis on high quality because there are a bunch of crappy ones out there) will be much better than worn originals. But I do agree that in low mileage cases the factory spring is better than a bad aftermarket one.
@@AutoFixYT
True story. The replacement springs are usually smaller in diameter and come with less coils. KYB makes a decent quick strut though, and I have had success with the Oreddy brand. Not so much with Monroe
Always try to keep original part's, get your starter and alternator rebuilt locally. Because a lot of times new starter's don't line up right, car collectors, call it numbers matching.
Probably one of the best funniest educkational yet serious 1aAuto videos out there. Luv it and it may save a life or 2
Great video. Best example of the pitfalls that shade tree mechanics encounter. Glad to see you were working on a wrecker.
That was no wrecker, that was my car! 1A told me he just going to wash and polish it. 🚘🤷🏻♂️🖕🏾☹️😭
I just dug mine out of a dumpster,l. I didn't realize how much tension they were under. Thank you for your creative and informative video.
This was great info! Thanks. I have used complete strut assemblies from Monroe that had the top nut torqued down too much, resulting in that crunching/knocking sound during turns. I avoid Monroe as much as possible these days, until their production quality improves. Great safety lessons, now to go put this info to use this afternoon.
Great video I was a professional mechanic for 35 years, and a driveway mechanic for many more years. Of course safety was number one with me. I had a few goof ups, sometimes with cuts or scratches, thank god nothing serious, definitely a wake up call. I recommend your video for anyone working on vehicles, I think your video is more like a public service, THANKS
Changing my back struts in a bit, been watching so many videos and if anything my dad will be making the final exam. Whew! My front struts will be tommorow!
I leave the axle nuts on and run a ratchet strap through the back of the control arm and over the caliper and face of the hub. Keeps the knuckle from falling over and over extending the cv joint and also keep you from tugging on the brake hose and speed sensor harness
Thanks! I was wondering how they aligned the camber on my 1998 CRV, but that comment about the bolt answered the question. Great vid.
I had a mechanic jack up my 1985 300ZX using the driver's side floor pan. This was for a simple front brake caliper inspection. Then they tried to sledge hammer the bulge flat. They ended up paying for the floor pan replacement.
Wow... that's no real mechanic I'll tell you that
Excellent video, first time I've ever seen demonstrated a sequence of [potential] mistakes for a specific job. It's a great teaching method for all of us and for any manual tasks, so effective. And of course some of these errors resonated personally - for obvious reasons - and I have the scars to prove. Kit [England]
This is hilarious! You should list it under "Fails." I learned auto mechanics the hard way too. Fortunately, cars made in the sixties were pretty simple, and mistakes were less certain. I was a kid and didn't have much money ... no jobs for kids in the South. I once replaced the front axle on my 1965 Saab (Rzeppa type U-joint) with a knuckle type U-joint I salvaged from my step-dad's wrecked 1963 Saab. It was a press fit in the wheel bearing, but I pounded it out with a BFM, and then pounded it into my own car's wheel bearing. Lots of sweat!! It worked fine, except for a slightly limited turning radius (bump, bump, bump.) About 6 months later I overcooked a corner with bald rear tires and a sudden onset of rain (Florida,) and got T-boned by the only tree withing sight.
The only trees in sight is usually a car magnet. I swear that’s how they make these things
Best automotive videos on you tube ,helping people keep their hoopties running strong
For many years I used 1/2" impact to install wheels (with reasonable torque and NEVER a problem)
Then I decided I wanted to be more conscientious and would lightly zing them on with 3/8", then use torque wrench when the car was on the ground.
I used this technique for a few years and then (you guessed it!) ONE time I forgot to torque them.
They were 'tight enough' to make it through the road test but loosened up the next day with the customer driving.
Fortunately, it was a very understanding customer who was not only capable of tightening them on the road herself but actually laughed at my 'honest mistake.'
I'm now back to doing in in one motion with the 1/2".
You should offer a free lug stud replacement after you end up stretching them out
I've been watching 1A Auto for close to a decade but these new views are great!
Len loved your video!! Great humor and great instruction, and tips on how to avoid these serious costly and/or harmful mistakes. The actual examples of what can happen and how it looks are awesome! I have learned a lot from your video. Thank you for taking the time to put together a greatly quality video!
I reviewed your video once again I can tell that I misunderstanding the point here but it seemed like you deliberately doing all those things teaching us something your videos is excellent you're a great teacher
Front struts are not fun. I have never had luck with the spring compressor tool. When my brother and me change front struts we put the car on jack stands and jack up on the brake rotor to relieve tension and take the nut off. Then we slowly lower the control arm with the floor jack and remove the strut. When assembling it we use the floor jack again to jack up the brake rotor and strut with the spring into the tower and keep jacking the rotor up until the bolt studs are fully seated in the tower. Then we put the 3 small nuts and the big nut on the top of the strut. Like I said it is the hard way, but it works.
I am reporting you for Toyota abuse. Getting ready to do front and rear struts on my 96 corolla. Appreciate the tips!
This is like watching a compilation of me on my past jobs.
Ive never laughed so much while watching a mechanic teaching video and at the same time learned so much. I will definitely subscribe I like your wisdom and style
Whenever I buy new tyres I ALWAYS take the car home and undo the wheel nuts. 9 times out of 10 the dipshits at the tyre place have gunned the wheel nuts on and they need a bit of persuasion to get them off. Saved me a couple of times when I've had to change a tyre on the side of the road
It warps your brake rotors.
I’ve seen this comment many times. Why don’t we insist that the shops install and torque the lug nuts properly in accordance with the manufacturer’s specs? I no longer will bring my car to any shop that gives me a hard time or refuses to do so. Think about it, we pay them way more per hour than what the majority of us make, why can’t we expect and even demand professional service?
One of the most common complaints from females too. Makes it real hard to get it off on the side of the road for them. If they are torqued properly, they usually can get it loose with body weight on the lever if they are lighter weight.
@@scooterp7009 in Australia this is how all tyres and wheels are to be installed. Nuts are rattled on lightly with a calibrated impact driver that slip after right tension is achieved but they are expensive so not always used, and toqued to spec and double checked by A 2nd person to make sure your wheels don't fall off.
I was searching struts for my truck, on google and your video was recommended, enjoyed every bit. Great video for new automotive techs, safety glass, steel toe and Gloves, Only way to go
+Cesar Abraham Thanks for checking us out! 1aau.to/m/Shop-1AAuto-c
This was painful to watch, but hopefully saves people time and heartache.
*Great Video 👍 can you please make a video on headlight restoration, when it starts to fade and blur and looses it's uv protection ...thanks*
I got a pair of replacement headlights for my Tundra for $53 on Amazon, made in Taiwan. They are excellent and 8 years later are still crystal clear.
@@67daltonknox yes but for $8 you can make them shine like brand new 😁*
@@terry.chootiyaa. Not like this you can't and you will have to restore the old ones every 6 months.
I am about to replace the struts, swaybar links and bushings. Thank you for this video. I would not have removed the axle nut and just let it hang on the halfshaft. I will also replace the rear shocks because it is logical that if the struts are leaking the rears are probably worn out too.
I have to say, I like this vid, it gives you the idea on how to do it, and shows you a lot of the stupid mistakes people make all the time doing it. Keep it up.
+Jennagryphon Thanks for the feedback!
Definitely a video every backyard-alley mechanic should watch!
I used to do detail at a Chevy dealer. I can't tell you how many vehicles came through for oil & tire rotation and I've almost never seen a mechanic torque a wheel down, but I've definitely seen a lot of this.. 12:02
It sounds like a damn Nascar pit in the shop lol
Great Video. Very informative with humor. Thanks. With the way prices and inflation are these days, I've purchased some quality tools and have been doing my car repairs and maintenance myself. I do know when something is probably over my head and when to surrender but you guys are a blessing.
Thanks again for an awesome video. Unfortunately for me and many other owners of vehicles like mine (2013 Ford Explorer) there is NOT a replacement strut and shock together. The strut spring comes separate from the strut and shock. Poor design that Ford changed in 2014. If you know of a complete assembly here in Canada it would sure make it easier. Thanks
I'm having similar issue with Toyota Highlander. Only the lesser brands like Monroe or Chinese knock offs are available as complete assembly. The OEM KYBs or Tokico come only as components. So, I've got to either live with less than quality or, do it the hard way. The hard way it is! Luckily I already possess a pair of spring compressors.
Outstanding video. Excellent presentation. I wish all instructional videos were 1/2 this good.
3:39 My method for preventing the axle from dislocating was to put another jack below the hub to support it
Nice video. The young lady doing the shocks and struts install video used what looked like an oxyacetelian torch to remove the rear shocks nuts but you say not to do that - makes sense. Strangely enough the upper bolts on my 22 year old Tundra were rusted shut. I sprayed liquid wrench all over the nuts, tapped them with a hammer for about 30 seconds and came back the next day. A box wrench and a hammer broke the nut and bolt open without damaging anything else.
I love watching Len! I was rolling on the laugh laughing because I have made some of these mistakes before I learned the proper way and acted just like him too 😆🤣😂
+iSteven180 Thanks for checking us out. Shop for high quality auto parts on 1AAuto.com:
1aau.to/m/Shop-1AAuto-c
Also tighten when car is down on normal load
Hard to believe you found a junk Toyota.
They're out there, just gotta keep looking lol. They may be junk but they still go strong 😄
Excellent advice and demonstration. The first example is the biggest.....DISTRACTIONS! I often do some troubleshooting and repairs for a friend who is "mechanically declined". Only problem is, if he's there with me he just won't shut up. Very distracting. Not to mention he could hand me my tools, if he would only shut up.
Love your work! I learn a lot from you. Please keep up the good work. We need you!
+Robert Flores Thanks for the feedback!
Yeah i never had the benefit of someone to teach me automotive mechanic stuff so I end up diving on YT. The military taught me what I needed to know about non-automotive stuff but there's a wide gap in between those two categories as far as what I need to know.
Very informative video; I like the idea of not only telling people what NOT to do; but showing them how it would affect the surrounding parts IF it were done that way. Great job!
For some reason, I think this is how some "professionals" do it from what I've seen. I have to admit though, I have had an inner cv joint come apart on me once. Recovered, and learned a lesson.
Worst thing about inner cv joint coming out is, even if you can get it back in, there's usually a spring behind the spider, which falls out of position if it's over extended, so you have to pull the boot to get it back where it belongs. You only have to do that once to learn that lesson.
The sway link part hilarious. Never seen or heard of sway link coming off without violence
Godzilla changes a strut.
This video is GENIUS! Glad you weren't injured showing us your comedy of errors. I learned that is definitely worth paying an EXPERIENCED professional.
I’m not doing this job again at home.
The spring compressor they rent at auto parts stores,are more frightening than some horror films..
My car was so out of alignment after that ,I could only drive 10 mph to the tire place.
+Patrick Star Thanks for the feedback!
I always rent two sets of compressors. Using three compressors on a spring is much safer and slowly compressing them all equally stops them from shifting on the spring.
My alignment place was impressed they were like I can't believe how close you got on youre alignment after replacing the whole suspension, I did tierods strut, bearing, a arm and links. We only had to adjust one tie rod a 1/4 turn and snug the other one up, I did not have tools to tighten right like who has 23mms (I drove 20mph cause they were prob 30 nm but it drove straight, still don't know what tool I needed for the tierod boot straps so I'll be replacing the zip ties once a year after the winter when they should see the most abuse. Once I have 2nd car I'll be doing my rear struts and bearings, but my struts were leaking and one bearing was bad and needed front brakes.
That was an awesome video! You covered every base, I feel like you left no questions unanswered. Thanks.
Awesome video and much to learn from it. Thanks for the time spent on doing this video with helpful tips. Thumbs up sir
Engaging and educational and you cover safety for you and the car really well. Well done. Worth watching for everyone
OMG!!! dude, you are so funny!!! Adding comedy to the serious video is genius... thanks for sharing
i like this guy.....he needs his own channel
Excellent safety video!
One of the most needed videos ever posted. Keep up the good work, and stay safe.
I usually buy complete struts assembly
Unfortunately some of us have cars that don’t have full assemblies available and gotta rebuild them ourselves :/ thanks for showing us how to safely do this job!
I love how your "purposely" showing all the ways you can mess up and giving a good explanation to why what you did was bad. Hilarious.
ahaha its weird, at each scene i was like : what a morron/ oh wait he is acting / ohh what a morron
Going through all the trouble scenarios is excellent and you do it splendidly. Very informative, thank you!
Would love to see the Allen key end link method work up in the salt belt 🤣🤣
It doesn't. We have to cut them off and replace.
I love the humor you add, makes it so much easier to relate to!