Front shock install

[Blaise]

Hey guys:

I just thought that someone might have a few tips to offer in the installation of my front shocks.

I have had a few more curve balls than I expected.

Getting that notched nut on and off with a pipe wrench was not my thing...so I bought the Bilstein tool ($10).

Now, I have the spring compressed and I need to tighten the top nyloc nut. But the shock shaft spins. I can see that one can use an 8mm allen to keep it from doing so, but I need a socket to get at the nut. Do I have to devise a means of grabbing the socket, while using an allen? Is there a simple way to do this.

BTW, my impact wrench spins it too, though it worked well to remove it.

Thanks in advance

<table><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/d5 ... site"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_UZQuuBHQvx4/TG9aZ ... r><td>From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/blaisedesco ... bsite">E12 strut-shock install</a></td></tr></table>

A few more photos here:
http://picasaweb.google.com/blaisedesco ... directlink

[DMS]

I use one of these:



It just fits perfectly together with an 8mm allen, it's a piece of cake.

[thomas_m535i]

I use one of these:
[..] It just fits perfectly together with an 8mm allen, it's a piece of cake.

Exactly, I've just removed my shocks the same way, so I'm sure remounting them can be done with these tools as well.

Don't want to hijack your topic, only one question though. I noticed there is a SKF bearing in the guide support, which isn't in a good condition. The guide supports are very expensive. Would it possible to just replace this bearing?

http://bmwfans.info/parts/catalog/E12/S ... ing_parts/

[T.Hanson]

Foggy on the terminology: Bearing (skf) ? vs. my idea of the little tube the shock shaft goes through, surrounded by the rubber bushing, that goes into the big disc deal that (3) bolts into the unibody, front fender.

Yes, those rubber bushing inserts are available separately.

Are spring compressors expensive, one type better than another ?

[thomas_m535i]

Foggy on the terminology: Bearing (skf) ? vs. my idea of the little tube the shock shaft goes through, surrounded by the rubber bushing, that goes into the big disc deal that (3) bolts into the unibody, front fender.

Yes, those rubber bushing inserts are available separately.

Are spring compressors expensive, one type better than another ?

Thanks T. Hanson. Yes SKF is a brand of bearings. See pictures:
http://img821.imageshack.us/img821/6918/sdc11359q.jpg
http://img843.imageshack.us/img843/1654/sdc11362.jpg

I think the rest of the guide support doesn't look too bad. Would be great if you're right about replacing the bearing. Any hints for removal and insertion?

@ springs compressors: I don't think it matters that much. Yet, it's vital to make sure that the clamps of the spring compressor device can't come off when they're under pressure.. I.e. by using extra brackets which ensure this (by screwing them on around the two main clamps.. if you know what I mean... ). Also, please don't attempt to make one yourself. It's not worth it.

[Domingo]

Should have changed your support guides, the rubber is toasted...

[Blaise]

From my observations, it looks like the bearing in the rubber support is heavily peened into place. Take a look at the bottom of it and you should see it. One could grind those peens back, but then you would have to devise a means of holding the new bearing. I would not go that route, but if you are interested, I would price the bearing first.

SKF is a bearing brand.

As for spring compressors....get creative

I use a couple of ratchet straps. On my motorcycles, I use straps too, but just drape a loop under my bench and step in it to compress the springs. I am not heavy enough to do this on a car spring...lol.

Like Ron, I try to use what I have in the shop to get the job done.

[T.Hanson]

I stand corrected, having only done rear shocks. Rats !, I thought I had parts for the fronts for someday. Alas, the simple rubber bushings appear to be rear only.

I'm told stock front springs require a compressor, but lowering ( Eibach, etc.) are shorter and don't.

[Blaise]

Just another note for those who might be thinking about replacing their front shock upper mounts. Mine had horribly notched feeling bearings, but the rubber was still solid. After some careful flushing, cleaning and repacking of the bearings, they work fine. In my case, it was years of hardened grease that created the notched feel.

Just something to try or consider before ordering replacement.

[Blaise]

I have a million things on my plate right now...so this work is progressing more slowly than I would like.

Here are some photos and comments...thus far.

A few highlights/issues:

-Both previously installed Bilstein heavy duty shocks had blown their internal seals and filled the strut with oil.
-Both upper mount bearings were caked with hardened original grease.
-Bilstein supplied gaiters did not fit the strut shaft
-My 1977 has 1976 struts and take different model shocks than a 1977.
-Right side top of shock has pressed into the top mount such that the plate and corresponding washer was distorted and stuck. The only thing that I can think would have caused this is an overzealous tightening of the top nut....or extreme bottoming out of the suspension.
-Bilstein sells the tool for the notched nut....cheap....get one.

http://picasaweb.google.com/blaisedesco ... directlink

Next I will do the rears.

My calipers are painted....and need to be reassembled.

[RonDwyer]

Blaise,

When are you going to stop by for a lesson in Hack Mechanic 101?

Ron

[Blaise]

Blaise,

When are you going to stop by for a lesson in Hack Mechanic 101?

Ron

I plan on it...but life has had me swamped. I should drive my car over...as we have the same cars.

[DMS]

Cool I didn't know the bilstein tool was so cheap. I should take a look if I can get it here aswell. I just used a driver and a big hammer .

[thomas_m535i]

Just another note for those who might be thinking about [..]
Just something to try or consider before ordering replacement.

Blaise, thanks for sharing! I was contemplating about this approach as well (as two replacements would set me back at least another €140,- !).