Strut/shock tower bearings

[SoulTerror]

I need to replace the strut bearings which are on the way. I was gonna have Todd's bro do it for me but having some problems with Nextel and Sprint so had to spend the money I had set off to the side for the labor. So now I'm wondering how hard and what is needed to replace them? If it's pretty simple I'm gonna do myself once it warms up alittle more. If it requires special tools guess I'm just gonna have to wait till I can get the money saved up again.

[SoulTerror]

Anyone???

[WMCCjames]

Not really any special tools required, it's pretty simple.

[SoulTerror]

Is it just remove the 3 bolts, pull the part off. then put new 1 on. or what? I have a Haynes manual but it's buried in my shed.

[willasc]

I don't know much about the 3rd gen strut tower/bearing. But if it's like a 4th gen, it's a part of the strut mount, which I had mine replaced a couple of times. I think you do have to take a strut assembly off the car, compress the spring to disassemble, then put the new strut mount on.

[SoulTerror]

So basically something I can't do myself for 1 no spring compressor and never messed with 1 before. DAMMIT!

[TSTONE]

[TSTONE]

[TSTONE]

GM Firebird 1982-1992 Repair Guide
REMOVAL & INSTALLATION

REMOVAL & INSTALLATION
See Figures 1, 2, 3 and 4

Fig. 1: Strut removal



Fig. 2: Matchmarking the strut brace position



Fig. 3: Removing the strut brace nuts



Fig. 4: Lifting out the strut

1. Place the ignition key in the unlocked position so that the front wheels can be moved.
2. From inside the engine compartment, remove the upper strut to upper mount nut.

CAUTIONDo not attempt to move the vehicle with the upper strut fastener disconnected.

1. Raise the front of the vehicle and position safety stands under the vehicle.
2. Remove the wheel and tire assembly.
3. Remove the brake caliper without disconnecting the fluid hose, and hang out of the way on a wire. Do not allow the caliper to hang by its fluid hose.
4. Remove the two lower bolts attaching the strut to the steering knuckle.
5. Lift the strut up from the steering knuckle to compress the rod, then pull down and remove the strut.

To install:

1. Half extend the rod through the upper mount, then hand-start the upper fastener, engaging as many threads as possible.
2. Extend the strut and position it onto the steering knuckle.
3. Install the lower mount bolts hand-tight.
4. Tighten the upper fastener fully.
5. Fully tighten the lower bolts only when the front suspension is on the ground. Torque the steering knuckle-to-strut nuts to 125 ft. lbs. (170 Nm) followed by a 120 degree turn. Do not exceed a final torque of 148 Ft. lbs. (200 Nm).
6. Install the brake caliper
7. Install the wheel and tire assembly.
8. Lower the front of the vehicle.
9. From inside the engine compartment, tighten the upper strut to upper mount nut to 44 ft. lbs. (60 Nm).
10. Have the front end aligned.

[tenpin842]

lol...Todd's the man! Thats awsome!

[TSTONE]

[SoulTerror]

Thanks alot but where in that do I replace the strut bearing which is at the top? Sorry I just quickly scanned that and looks like it's just for replacing the strut.

[TSTONE]

the bearing is part of the mount (FIGURE 1 #8) and my understanding is if the strut cart is ok you should be able to unbolt the strut at the top and lift off the mount with the vehicle weight resting on the strut - someone please correct me if im wrong - i havent done a 3rd gen in yrs

[SoulTerror]

Ya I'm hopping that's all it is so I can do it myself to save some money.

[TSTONE]

good luck