CAUSES & CONSEQUENCES OF STRUT FAILURE Like many parts on your vehicle, struts are subject to wear. The rate of wear depends on a wide range of variables, such as road and environmental conditions, your driving style and vehicle load. Causes of worn struts include damaged bushings, exposure to the elements, loss of oil viscosity and gradual degradation of internal components over time. Driving with worn struts can result in problems ranging from reduced braking efficiency, cause premature tire wear, loss of stability and damage to other suspension parts. | IMPORTANCE OF AN ALIGNMENT Always perform an alignment anytime replacement shocks, struts or other ride control parts are installed. Camber, toe and caster settings can all be affected by installing new struts. Failure to make sure the vehicle’s alignment is within factory specifications can lead to problems like premature tire wear. | IMPORTANCE OF MAINTAINING RIDE HEIGHT Proper ride height is crucial to vehicle durability, performance and safety. When inspecting a vehicle, don’t just check the static ride height. The dynamic ride height – the ride height of a vehicle in motion – may tell a different story. The cause of dynamic ride height issues is often worn or damaged coil springs. Don’t just replace the strut – be sure to also inspect for and replace worn coil springs. | HOW TO PROPERLY INSTALL A STRUT ASSEMBLY Avoid noise after installing a strut assembly with this four-step procedure. - Loosely install 1 or 2 upper mounting nuts and position lower strut mount to steering knuckle assembly
- Install lower mounting bolts and lower vehicle to the ground
- Locate manufacturer torque specifications
- Torque lower bolts and secure upper mounting nuts in alternating pattern
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