Installing new struts/shocks/springs...looking for DIY instructions

[Yarflana]

I already reviewed this, but need to know a little more if possible.

http://www.yarisworld.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1096&highlight=diy+springs

Here is what I am putting on:

Struts/shocks - Tokico reds, front and back
Springs - Eibach Pro kit springs

I guess my main question is what will carry over from the stock struts to the new struts in terms of parts? Dust cover? Bump stop? Anything else?

Also, I heard if you use an offset 19mm x 17mm box wrench, you don't have to remove the wiper assembly.

Thoughts are appreciated. I plan on the install in the next couple weeks.

[Viperoni]

I've done it successfully. I measured the washers I used with a micrometer to make sure that they were within 0.02" of each other to not screw up my already 0 toe.

[cali yaris]

The main part that gets moved over is the strut bearing. dust cover, yes and bump stop

do you have air tools or an impact wrench?

[Yarflana]

I do have an impact wrench. Where would I need that? After reviewing the install in the link above, I didn't see one used. Will I need to cut the bump stop like he did, or will everything move over without modification?

The main part that gets moved over is the strut bearing. dust cover, yes and bump stop

do you have air tools or an impact wrench?

[Yarflana]

You lost me at "washers" and "toe." I know "toe" is part of a measurement of alignment, but I plan to get an alignment after install.

I am primarily concerned with what will carry over from the stock assembly and will it have to be modified.

I've done it successfully. I measured the washers I used with a micrometer to make sure that they were within 0.02" of each other to not screw up my already 0 toe.

[Yarflana]

Ok, just read this on the MI Forum:
http://www.microimageonline.com/forums/showthread.php/5725-Coilover-(Megan-Racing)-Install-Tips

I see what carries over now from the stock setup (assuming coil overs don't come with something the separate strut/spring package I purchased doesn't)...thanks GARM!

Now, the impact wrench part, hmmmmm....I do have a breaker bar and excellent socket tools and a torque wrench.

[1.5]

I did coilovers so all those parts where included I only needed to keep like nuts and bolts that hold the assembly to the vehicle but all suspension components were otherwise included.

I cut the bump stops when I did stock struts/shocks with lowering springs but the reds I believe already are made ready for shorter springs.

The impact wrench/air tools will be useful in removing the top nut and those holding the shock body to the hub. No hand tools could apply enough force to break either top nut loose and neither of the two bolts on the passenger hub. But I did my suspension at like 65k miles. I had an offset box wrench but like I said I could not apply the force to break the top nuts loose so the cowl had to come off to zap it.

I could do the rears blind, deaf, crippled, and asleep in like 30-45 minutes. They are too easy. Just unassemble everything lay it down and backtrack the order so everything fits back like it should.

[Yarflana]

Thanks Phil.

I am thinking I will need the spring compressor after all if I need to use the upper strut components from the stock strut on the new Tokico reds.

I haven't done this before and just don't want to get in there and find out midway I am not prepared.

I did coilovers so all those parts where included I only needed to keep like nuts and bolts that hold the assembly to the vehicle but all suspension components were otherwise included.

I cut the bump stops when I did stock struts/shocks with lowering springs but the reds I believe already are made ready for shorter springs.

The impact wrench/air tools will be useful in removing the top nut and those holding the shock body to the hub. No hand tools could apply enough force to break either top nut loose and neither of the two bolts on the passenger hub. But I did my suspension at like 65k miles. I had an offset box wrench but like I said I could not apply the force to break the top nuts loose so the cowl had to come off to zap it.

I could do the rears blind, deaf, crippled, and asleep in like 30-45 minutes. They are too easy. Just unassemble everything lay it down and backtrack the order so everything fits back like it should.

[1.5]

That happened to me lol I had to ride over to home depot

[Yarflana]

Great deal...found that Autozone in my neighborhood rents spring compressors for free...just $50 deposit, keep as long as needed, return and get your money back!

These look like they will work.

http://www.autozone.com/autozone/accessories/OEM-MacPherson-strut-spring-compressor/_/N-26gi?itemIdentifier=70135&_requestid=445783

[1.5]

yup thats what I was talking about

[yPod09]

Yep, spring compressor is a must (probably possibly without, but not fun).

I used the offset box wrench and a long handled hex-key, and thus did not have to remove the wiper stuff. Kind of a tough reach in there, but SO much easier I think.

1.5 is right, the back is SOOO easy.

And if you can get your hands on an impact wrench you will be so much happier! I grabbed a cheap one at Harbor Freight that works great. ALSO, WD-40 is your friend on those big bolts/nuts.

Have fun!

p.s. Don't forget before and after pics. You'll want them to compare.

[Absolutely Red 12]

The short arm of a long handled allen wrench, correct.
It needs to be cut to 1/2 its length. To slide under the cowl, and still be able to stick it into the top of the rod.

Spring compressor is advisable to remove the springs from the strut, but can be reinstalled without one. With TRD springs, all I did was push down on the top hat, and had my son thread the nut.

Impact not needed, unless the car is 5 years old from Canada!!

[Yarflana]

Thanks guys.

Concerning the allen wrench, I was looking at the top area today and noted that the allen wrench short side will have to be a bit stubby to get in that space, but I will figure it out.

I shouldn't need an impact wrench...the car is 4 years old, but with some liquid wrench and my 1/2" drive breaker bar, I should be fine.

I found that the offset wrench for the top nut doesn't have to have a very larger offset and 10 degrees is enough and usually what is provided on most combination (open/closed end) wrenches. I hate using 12 point wrenchs because rounding off crucial nuts is always a chance. I have all 6 point sockets for my socket-wrenches so that is okay.

I was advised to cut the bump stop a little, even though I shouldn't need to for only a 1" drop. I may cut it anyways...just the bottom notch of the 2.

[Absolutely Red 12]

Thanks guys.

Concerning the allen wrench, I was looking at the top area today and noted that the allen wrench short side will have to be a bit stubby to get in that space, but I will figure it out.



Read my post prior!!

[Yarflana]

I need to do a DIY on the strut/shock installation. I read the one I linked to above and it was helpful, but there are a few things I did which would make this possibly easier, especially the tools to use and the fact a torque wrench is a MUST!