To replace struts without needing an alignment, you will need to mark the existing strut-to-knuckle bolts before removing them. When replacing the new struts, use a spring compressor tool and carefully compress the new springs until they fit into place in the knuckles. Once this is done, reattach the old marked strut-to-knuckle bolts with their original torque specifications, then attach both shock absorbers using provided hardware and instructions.
Finally, reinstall all other components such as sway bar links and dust covers that were removed during disassembly.
Will changing struts affect alignment?
- Lift the vehicle: Securely lift the vehicle with a jack stand and place it on level ground
- Remove old struts: Using a wrench, loosen and remove the nuts that secure the top of each strut to the frame/body of your car
- You can then pull out each strut along with its spring assembly from underneath your car
- Install new struts: Place one end of a new strut into its designated spot in the engine bay or undercarriage, depending on where yours is located, then insert its coil spring onto it as well before connecting them together at their center nut-bolt joint with a wrench until they are firmly locked in place
- Then repeat this same process for any other remaining struts you need to install too! 4
- Connect shock absorber: Finally, connect each shock absorber’s lower connection point to its corresponding suspension arm using either bolts/nuts or cotter pins as necessary for your particular make and model of vehicle before tightening everything down securely once again with your wrench set (or socket set if needed)
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- Lower Vehicle: Once all four shocks have been replaced, safely lower your car back down off of its jack stands so that it sits comfortably back on level ground again without having to worry about needing an alignment afterwards!
Wheel Alignment Necessary After Strut Replacement
Replacing struts is an important part of regular car maintenance, as they are responsible for keeping the ride smooth and helping maintain proper steering response. However, once a strut has been replaced it’s essential to have a wheel alignment performed. This ensures that the suspension system is properly aligned with the wheels, ensuring even tire wear and optimal handling performance from your vehicle.
Credit: www.kyb.com
Can You Replace Struts Without Alignment?
The answer to this question is yes, you can replace struts without alignment. Alignment is an important process when replacing struts and it ensures that the new strut will be fitted correctly into place. However, it is possible to omit alignment if necessary in certain situations.
If the strut needs to be replaced quickly or if access to a precise alignment tool isn’t available, then omitting the alignment step may be necessary. When replacing a strut without doing an alignment first, make sure that the vehicle is parked on level ground before starting work on it as this helps ensure correct placement of the new strut in its mountings and prevents any further damage being done during installation. It’s also important to inspect all components carefully before attempting any repair work – worn out parts must be replaced for safety purposes, even if they don’t appear damaged at first glance.
Finally, always use high quality replacement parts when making repairs and follow manufacturer’s instructions exactly for best results with your DIY job!
Can Bad Struts Throw off Alignment?
Yes, bad struts can definitely throw off alignment. Struts are an important part of a vehicle’s suspension system, and they help to absorb the shock from bumps in the road as well as maintain proper wheel alignment. When struts become worn or damaged, it can cause excessive bouncing which will lead to misalignment of the wheels.
This misalignment is difficult to detect without a professional inspection, but some signs that your car may need new struts include pulling in one direction while driving down the road and uneven tire wear. It is recommended that you have your struts checked annually by a qualified mechanic to ensure proper wheel alignment – this service should be included with most regular tune-ups.
What Else Should Be Replaced When Replacing Struts?
When replacing struts, it is important to consider other components that may be affected. Depending on the age and condition of the vehicle, there are additional items that should also be inspected and replaced as needed. These include shock absorbers, shocks mounts, strut bearings, coil springs and sway bar links.
All these components work together to provide a comfortable ride for you and your passengers. Shock absorbers provide resistance against road bumps while strut bearings keep things running smoothly by allowing the suspension system to move properly without excessive movement in any direction. Coil springs support the weight of your car while sway bar links help maintain stability when cornering or negotiating uneven surfaces.
If any of these parts are worn out or damaged they must all be replaced at once in order for your new struts to perform optimally over time.
Is an Alignment Necessary With New Suspension?
When it comes to installing new suspension, an alignment is absolutely necessary. Without an alignment, your vehicle’s wheels can become misaligned and cause serious damage over time. An alignment ensures that all four wheels are pointed in the same direction and that your tires maintain even contact with the road surface.
This means improved handling, better fuel efficiency and a smoother ride for you and your passengers. Additionally, proper wheel angles provide improved tire wear which extends their lifespan — saving you money on replacement costs down the line. Neglecting to have an alignment performed after any suspension work increases the chances of uneven tread wear as well as erratic steering behavior due to improper toe settings or caster angle changes.
Even minor adjustments need to be properly aligned by a professional technician at a qualified auto shop to ensure optimal performance from both your car and its components.
Conclusion
Replacing struts without needing an alignment is a great way to save time, money and hassle. It can be done with the right tools, knowledge and preparation. Although it requires some mechanical know-how, replacing your car’s struts doesn’t have to be a daunting task.
With a few simple steps you can easily replace your worn or damaged struts in no time at all. By following the tips outlined in this article, you should now feel confident that you can successfully replace your vehicle’s struts without having to take it into the shop for an alignment afterwards.
