front 2.0 insert replacement tools

[shaun3.0s]

hi everybody

at the moment changing and painting the front struts

is there any special tools to undo the shock insert from the case, it has about four cut outs in it

first time replacing one so if you could help with info

thanks shaun

[Jayman]

A big c spanner is probably the right tool but Mine were siezed and I had replacements anyway so I used some large stilsons.

[Caprigear]

If you're changing the inserts the replacement ones will have their own collars anyway, I use stilsons to get the old ones out then a C spanner to screw in the replacement ones.

[vp-reynolds4]

If youre a looney like me grind of the old piston from the top of the insert. Clamp the old thread in a vice upside down and turn the strut via the brake disk by hand. That worked a treat for me and saved my body strain for another day.

[Bug]

From bitter experience.......
Do NOT put any kind of pressure on the top of the strut casing once the insert is removed. It will distort the top and you'll never get the new collar to thread in properly.
Then, like me, you'll end up talking nicely to Caprigear for a new strut!

[ThatGuy]

When I did mine I got a 50ism mm c spanner from camberley auto factors out the strut in a vice and out my body weight on it. May not be the best way but the c spanner was the easiest way to go I found

[Diccy]

Hi everybody,

Instead of starting a new treat I thought I continue here has my question is pretty much related.


So I'm also refurbishing my front struts but I had a real struggle to un-screw that collar but after some heating I was able to open the strut and to my surprise all the oil ran out and the insert wasn't a closed one as I expected , it has slots on the bottom and the top end of the insert also opens up when you (gently) pull it .

Sounds this about right, or went something wrong?
Maybe because of the heating? although I didn't get it really hot .....

[Caprigear]

The standard original inserts had oil in them. The replacement inserts are a sealed unit.

[Diccy]

Ahh ok

So just poor the oil away and put in a sealed replacement with no further hassle ? Can do that

thank you for your reply.

P.s. witch one would you recommend? have been looking at Spax or GAZ...

[r2vdh]

Gaz.
Put some oil in with the new insert this will help stop the strut from rusting inside out.