Replacing shocks in Koni Struts

Tom '74 911 · 10-27-2007, 01:41 PM

Hi -
I'm in the process of replacing the shocks in the Koni struts on my '74 911. I won the battle w/the nuts at the top of each strut, but it wasn't pretty. Now I'm wondering how to pull the old guts or inserts out. Do I need a wrench w/pins that will stick in the 2 holes on the top - see the photos below - to unthread from the top? I tried to loosen the top piece w/a big wrench, but couldn't get it to budge.

After that, I am curious about the new inserts (which I don't have yet). I know Bilsteins have that pin at the bottom which, I assume, holds the bottom of the insert down. What holds the bottom of the Koni insert down?

Thanks a lot,
Tom

Tom '74 911 · 10-27-2007, 01:43 PM

Forgot photos:

Tom '74 911 · 10-28-2007, 06:44 AM

Sunday AM bump.

jclotz · jclotz's Garage

When I replaced mine, I used a pipe wrench on the edge of the silver piece with the two holes. Seemed to work just fine without damaging any parts.

Zeke · 10-28-2007, 09:55 AM

The inserts are held in place by the "socket" in the bottom and the gland nut with the two holes. That nut needs to be very tight, so it wouldn't be any fun getting it loose. Yes. you can do it with a pipe wrench if you don't care what the next guy thinks of your workmanship (with apologies to jclotz). Or, buy a good quality spanner wrench to do it right. This new tool will help you reinstall the nut properly and tight enough. You can most likely get one at AutoZone, or some place similar. Some inserts come with a wrench in the box. A couple of exposed threads is normal, the nut should not bottom out on the strut.

Tom '74 911 · 10-28-2007, 10:06 AM

Thanks for the replies - I thought a spanner wrench (wasn't sure of the proper term) would be the real ticket. I tried the pipe wrench route, but only succeeded in creating metal shavings as it slipped off (after each attempt).

Thanks,
Tom

Zeke · 10-28-2007, 11:44 AM

This type is OK and if you want to abuse it a little, you can put a pipe over the folded handles. Otherwise, you will need a dedicated (spacing) wrench. You will still need a cheater to tighten, IMO

Tom '74 911 · 10-28-2007, 04:42 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by milt

This type is OK and if you want to abuse it a little, you can put a pipe over the folded handles. Otherwise, you will need a dedicated (spacing) wrench. You will still need a cheater to tighten, IMO

Milt - Being an architect, I appreciate the visual. That's helps a lot!

Thanks,
Tom