edyvw
$50 site donor 2025
Yeah. To me, it's definitely the scariest job to do. Too easy not to DIY, but....
Budget struts?
- Thread starter buck91
- Start date
My experience with inexpensive versions of this tools is limited and mixed, they can be a bit unnerving with stronger springs but if the springs do not have a high rate spring they work fine, it should be okay with the VW but I would not use one on for eg a Honda Odyssey front strut, the thing will be twisting up more than a pole dancer. The lead screw has a max or 30 lb.ft
For the money I would prefer these, the KS also makes them for Gedore.
https://www.amazon.com/spring-compressor-safety-plastic-coated/dp/B007XULK4A
https://www.amazon.com/GEDORE-81113...fos.f5122f16-c3e8-4386-bf32-63e904010ad0&th=1
https://www.jbtools.com/jack-tech-s...MIpbSS6KTNgwMVKCytBh3GIgGdEAQYASABEgKFvfD_BwE
These are supposed to be the bee's knees. They also make a SK-3500 for heavier duty applications.
I've also used this type numerous times without issue.
Lie the strut down transversely in front of you on the floor and tighten up each side evenly. If something was to happen it would fling off to your left or right and not at you.
I’ve used the basic compressor on struts and rear struts (small springs). I was always careful when tightening, not going too fast and compressing each side evenly. Thing is for me, it takes a while to get the job done. I have that clamshell compressor but it’s too large for the small struts on Minis.
I was considering the Branick, but the cost is high if I’m not doing a lot of them. I’m now looking at that Jack Tech linked above. It’s not bad and I’ll likely do more struts with a tool like that.
I have been installing ready struts the past few times, but I think I’d rather start putting in quality parts going forward. I’m having to look at replacing the struts on the Charger, and I prefer to go with TRW or Sachs vs FCS or similar. Same with the Mini. I’d like to install Sachs or Bilstein in it if I’m going to hang onto it for a while.
I was considering the Branick, but the cost is high if I’m not doing a lot of them. I’m now looking at that Jack Tech linked above. It’s not bad and I’ll likely do more struts with a tool like that.
I have been installing ready struts the past few times, but I think I’d rather start putting in quality parts going forward. I’m having to look at replacing the struts on the Charger, and I prefer to go with TRW or Sachs vs FCS or similar. Same with the Mini. I’d like to install Sachs or Bilstein in it if I’m going to hang onto it for a while.
Yeah that style seems to show up a lot in UK/Euro videos I've watched.
- Joined
- Nov 19, 2023
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- 871
how long do you plan on keeping this ride? Budget struts from Rock auto usually come with the expectation, max a year.
If its a long term ride, more then a year, then id do a oe or oem build.
If its a long term ride, more then a year, then id do a oe or oem build.
This is actually a great price - $520.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/4039744262...MlhjbU/y+DHrTpZeGXQOt7ot4A==|tkp:BFBMhpWVgZ1j
Back in November I bought Monroe quick struts for my 2011 Town and Country on Amazon. The right side was like $20 more than the left for some reason, but I got both for like $200. I replaced the sway bar links and bushings and the rear shocks as well. The van is riding significantly better and I recommend the Monroes for the price.
+1 on the FCS from Rock Auto. Did all 4 corners on the minivan and will be doing fronts on the Acadia tomorrow. RA is great if there's a warranty issue.
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- Oct 15, 2021
- Messages
- 121
I’m surprised nobody mentioned Mando yet. The name is unfamiliar to some but they’re a Tier 1 manufacturer for Hyundai and Kia. Tesla sources from too. They just rapidly expanded their aftermarket quick strut lineup and if they don’t have it for your application, they may soon. I mention them because for the cars I own, they run about 40% cheaper than the KYB strut plus.
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