Escort Strut Frustrations

[SBR]

So, here's the struts I'm trying to put together:

-ZX2 mount and bearing
-Escort struts
-B&G MX-3 Springs

The problem I'm having is that the top hat where the bearing sits is not level with the strut rod. So when I try fitting the bearing then the mount, it either sits in the top hat but not the strut rod, or vice versa.

Help?

[wytbishop]

You'll have to post a picture. I can't quite make out what you're describing.

[Nd4SpdSe]

Why are you using Zx2 strut mounts and bearings?

[300zxrb26dett]

I would imagine that he is using 3rd gen escort struts which have a larger diameter shaft then the 2nd gen escort/protege/mx3 ones. Thats why he needs the escort mounts.

[SBR]

Kay, that's the upper seat. The part where the strut bearing goes in is not parallel with the strut rod, it's on a downwards angle. So trying to put in the strut bearing into the mount AND onto the strut rod just ends with frustration.

[300zxrb26dett]

These are a pain, I have done a few of them. You have to make sure everything is lined up or they wont want to go together.

The hole in that hat should point "out" or on the same side as the lower strut mount.

Now on your mount there will be a rubber piece that sticks up on one side. This is an indicator and needs to face "in" or opposite the lower strut mount.

I dont know what kind of spring compressors your using with these, but that can be a problem as well. The 2 piece clamp style ones dont work well for these using shorter springs and struts. You will have them compressed as far as they go and it still will not seem like enough. If thats the case you will have to have someone basically push down on the top mount to get enough extra compression to get the nut started on the shaft.

Hope that helps