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Charlie, where are my bushings! I need to get rid of this stupid rubber OEM preload BS!!

It's next to impossible to try to install my rear struts...there is so much preload on the hub from the control arms/etc that the hub is sitting 3-4" ABOVE where the rear strut is sitting...I have to use my whole body weight to move it to where it need to go, but its impossible for me to do that and line it up at the same time.

When I replaced the rears on my RS I don't remember having as hard of a time, but I was using stock struts/springs...ZX2's were supposed to be shorter making it easier. I can't think of anything else except to try to find someone willing to help (which is tough during the week)


It was supposed to take me an hour each side! Ive been on this one side for 3.5 hours and I'm sore all over tryin to wrestle against the preloaded pieces!




Any help?

Loosen off the mounting bolts that hold the Lateral Links to the subframe. That will release the crush sleeves in the bushings and should allow the arms to pivot.

Alright, I will hafta try that. Hopefully I don't break any of the corroded parts in the process! Thanks!

I remember doing this and literally putting all of my weight (all 150 pounds of me) on the hub (standing on it with both feet) and then reaching down to put the bolt in to the strut... it was ridiculous!

good luck sir

If you only have one wheel off the ground the other wheel will be pushing up on the anti sway bar. That's probably the resistance you're fighting against. Raise the entire rear of the car and it'll be much easier.

Hmm...yes I think that makes sense. I just got the first bolt it, had everything loosened except 1 bolt, then because its a mexican holiday, my buddy showed up w/ a 6 pack of corona and somehow I enticed him into helping me wrestle it on. When I attempt the other side, I think I will try to raise the whole rear of the car!

i just grabbed the wing stood on the disc and pushed myself down (i'm 70kg) and got my bro to get the bolts in!!!

As wytbishop says jacking up both sides really does work! Before I realised that I was pushing down and slotting a screwdriver to hold it because the bolts are such a tight fit.