Replacing the struts on a Mazda RX-2 or RX-3 involves a number of steps and requires some specific tools and components. click here for more details on the download manual…..
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Here’s a detailed guide on how to do it.
### Tools and materials Needed:
1. **Tools:**
– Jack and jack stands
– Lug wrench
– Socket set (including deep sockets)
– Wrench set
– Strut spring compressor (for coilover struts)
– torque wrench
– Pliers
– Screwdrivers
– Hammer
– Rubber mallet (optional)
– Penetrating oil (if bolts are rusted)
2. **Replacement Parts:**
– New struts (front and/or rear as needed)
– New strut mounts (if necessary)
– New strut boots (if necessary)
– New strut nuts and bolts (if necessary)
### Safety Precautions:
– Always wear safety goggles and gloves.
– Ensure the vehicle is parked on a flat surface and the parking brake is engaged.
– Use wheel chocks for additional safety.
### Step-by-Step Procedure:
#### 1. Preparation:
– **Gather Tools and Parts:** Before starting, gather all necessary tools and replacement parts.
– **Park Safely:** Park the car on a stable surface and engage the parking brake.
#### 2. Lift the Vehicle:
– **Loosen Lug Nuts:** Use a lug wrench to slightly loosen the lug nuts on the wheel you are working on (do not remove them yet).
– **Jack Up the Car:** Use a hydraulic jack to lift the vehicle and place jack stands securely under the frame for safety.
– **Remove the Wheel:** Now that the car is securely lifted, remove the loosened lug nuts and take off the wheel.
#### 3. remove the Old Strut:
– **Access the Strut:** Locate the strut assembly. It’s typically secured at the top by bolts inside the engine bay or trunk and at the bottom to the steering knuckle.
– **Disconnect the Brake Line:** If necessary, carefully detach any brake lines or sensors connected to the strut. Use pliers to carefully remove clips if present.
– **Remove the Strut Mounting Bolts:**
– **Top Mount:** Open the hood or trunk to access the top strut mount. remove the nuts securing the strut mount using a socket wrench.
– **Bottom Mount:** Go to the lower part of the strut. remove the bolts that secure the strut to the steering knuckle using a socket wrench. You may need to gently tap with a hammer to dislodge the strut from the knuckle.
– **Remove the Strut Assembly:** Once all bolts are removed, carefully pull the strut assembly out from the wheel well.
#### 4. Compress the Spring (If Applicable):
– **Spring Compressor:** If you are replacing the strut assembly with a new one that includes a spring, you will need to use a strut spring compressor to safely compress the spring before removing it. Follow the instructions with the compressor, ensuring it is evenly compressed.
#### 5. Replace the Strut:
– **Install the New Strut:** If you are using a new strut assembly, position it in the same location as the old strut.
– **Attach the Strut to the Steering Knuckle:** Insert the lower end of the strut into the steering knuckle
and secure it with the bolts. Tighten them to the manufacturer’s specifications.
– **Secure the Top Mount:** From inside the engine bay or trunk, place the top strut mount in position. Secure it with the nuts and tighten them.
#### 6. Reassemble Components:
– **Reconnect Brake Lines:** Reattach any brake lines or sensors you disconnected and secure them with clips.
– **Reinstall the Wheel:** Place the wheel back on the hub, hand-tighten the lug nuts, and lower the vehicle back to the ground.
#### 7. torque the Lug Nuts:
– Once the vehicle is back on the ground, use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the vehicle manufacturer’s specifications.
#### 8. Test Drive:
– Before taking a long drive, do a short test drive to ensure that everything is functioning correctly and that there are no unusual noises.
### Final Checks:
– After a day or two of driving, it’s a good practice to recheck all bolts and nuts to ensure they remain tight.
### Conclusion:
Replacing the struts on a Mazda RX-2 or RX-3 requires attention to detail and safety. Ensure you follow all the steps closely and consult your vehicle’s service manual for specific torque specifications and procedures. If you’re unsure or uncomfortable doing this yourself, it’s advisable to seek professional help.
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