how to replace front struts on a 98 forester with a junkyard whole unit

[Dan Rose]

Hi I'm a new member can anyone help weith suggestions on replacing a front struts with whole unit junkyard struts?? thankyou

[idosubaru]

yep, remove old ones and install new one.

 

there are 3 nuts on the top

2 bolts on the bottom

an associated ABS bracket bolt maybe

 

that's it, really simple.

 

mark the bolt HEAD of the top strut mount bolts on the front as they adjust camber for alignment.  mark the head location relative to the strut mount - there's a small indentation on Subaru struts, use that.  Since yo'ull be swapping struts you'll have to index the replacement strut to the old one so the bolt head ends up in the same location.

 

installing used struts isn't too much different from installing used light bulbs, brake pads...except brake pads are easier to ascertain their condition.  struts is kind of a guess.  ideally you get relatively new/low mileage/replacement/good condition struts, installing old struts might leave you little improvement or worse since they are wear items.

[chrisgpz]

Welcome to the party Dan.

 

I concur with what grossgary says, It should be pretty straight forward. If you have any self-service junkyards in your area I would recommend getting your struts there as you will gain experience pulling them off the donor car before digging into your own car.

 

If you have more questions about it post em up in the 1990's-Present area, probable get more action there.

 

Cheers