Front Upper Strut Mount installation question

[Godsspeed]

Can they be replaced without jacking up car and compressing the springs, i.e. can I just remove the bolts with the car on the ground. Thanks

[mikeyz325]

no. not by a long shot. why do need to replace them anyway?

the upper strut mount is attached to the strust assembly and comes up from under the car, there is no way to replace it from within the engine compartment alone.

in fact, to replace it you have to:

1) compress spring
2) remove strut from car
3) prey cover off strut assembly
4) remove strut mount

and its alot more difficult than it sounds depending on the tools you have. I've replaced front struts/springs with basic tools and jacks. I have meduim mechanical ability, and little experience..and it was a b1tch. if you plan to do it yourself, get the Bently manual to show you the parts and correct procedure.

space is tight, bolts are big and probably pretty locked into place, parts are heavy, hand spring compressors are a PAIN to work with (yes, you need one, rent one from auto store)...all in all, I don't recommend you do it yourself (especially if you don't even want to have to jack up the car)

Given a hydralic lift, impact wrenches, and industrial spring compressors, the job is probably a snap...so unless you got all those, its well worth it to pay any mechanic shop to do for you (no need to spend big bucks on a bmw guy or the dealership)

good luck,
mikey_p

[Godsspeed]

Thanks for the reply; going to install M3 offset mounts for more caster. I was working overnight when I wrote the msg--i guess I was dreaming. I will probably take it to a shop.