i have a 92se. i just bought a set of Gabriel struts. I read the write-up on 4dsc.com but still not sure how to do it. The step about removing the gland packing and o-ring? Is the o-ring something in the new strut too? This step has me a little confused. This is my first attempt at this. I did just do the fronts. Damn that took a long time and they look easier.

 

IIRC, there is a thin o-ring after you remove the gland packing nut with a large wrench. You put that o-ring on the new cartridge. It's been a while since I've done the struts though.

 

Is this something that can go bad or may need replacing. I am just hestitant to start because its late at night and if i need another part, I'm in trouble because my car is on my friends lift and I cant leave it here over night. Plus it's my ride home. The fronts almost had me because turns out one of the upper strut mount bearings was shot and i just made it to the parts store in time on that one. I just dont want to get stuck. Any help would be great.

 

I'd hold off on it if I were you. The rears are harder than the fronts since you have to remove and replace the strut cartridges. Just remove the o-rings carefully...they are pretty durable.

The gland packing nut is kinda hard to remove especially if you're doing it alone. I put the whole assembly back into the inside part of the wheel and held the assembly in place with my legs while I used a LARGE wrench. You'll figure a way if the above doesn't make much sense.

 

Thanks ghostmax. I do have someone else helping me so its not taking too long. we got it out and put it in a vice. got it apart. do i have to reuse that nasty looking oil in it. Any idea what kind it is?

 

yeah you can reuse the oil is is just motor oil i think and it is just to dissipate heat. no reason not to reuse the old stuff