Because there is sometimes confusion regarding what strut is being discussed, I want to be clear that by front strut I am referring to the assembly consisting of the large spring that surrounds the shock absorber for each front wheel.

I am quite sure I have a failed shock absorber because when I push on the right front fender it bounces like a rubber ball. Also when driving over any kind of road imperfection I hear a clunk and rattle. I have recently replaced what I refer to as the tie rod struts; these being the horizontal struts at a 45 degree angle to the for and aft direction of the car and which contain a pair of conical rubber or composite bushings.

I have read the Haynes manual instructions regarding changing the shock absorber. I am assuming the spring can be reused. The Haynes manual refers to this assembly as the "Front Suspension Strut".

The instructions have 3 items that concern me and make me wonder if the job is beyond my skill level, which I consider to be reasonably good.

1. Haynes Chapter 10.4 first column #4 states: If the strut is to be renewed, remove the front hub assembly then remove the brake backplate. Fortunately I understand what these components are, but I am not sure I understand why they have to be removed. Besides, Spook or someone in the group previously told me the hub assembly requires a 36mm socket for removal, and I have nothing that large. I would have to purchase one and then I question how much force will be required to remove the hub nut, which has probably been in place since 1994?

2. Instruction #5 states: Free the ballpin from the control arm using a proprietary ball joint separator...

Whenever I see the term "proprietary" I am challenged to understand whether that is really an indispensable tool, or just a strongly urged preference. I have. For example, a "C" spanner which it my item 3 is a great tool to remove the shock absorber nut, but if you don't have one, it looks like a sharp rap with a screw driver will do.

3. The C spanner just mentioned? Is this specialized tool a necessity or just a convenience.

Overall, this is a job I need to do or have done and I'm not sure how difficult it will be.

Also, Advance auto sells a replacement shock absorber for $56. I believe the Bilstein shock from FPC Groton is more like $100. Any suggestions on this.

And, finally. I understand that the shocks should be replaced in pairs.

I already have the ball joints for each side and my intention is to replace them. I have not yet purchased the shocks. Advance will supply me with spring compressors on a loan basis, whether I purchase the shocks from them or not. I'm well known at the local Advance Auto store and treated very well.

Bob Franklin