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Below is a detailed guide to help you through the process, including the necessary tools and steps.
### Tools Required
– **Jack and Jack Stands**
– A hydraulic jack to lift the vehicle safely.
– High-quality jack stands to support the car securely while you work.
– **Lug Wrench**
– A tool used to loosen and tighten the lug nuts on the wheels.
– **Socket Set**
– A comprehensive set of sockets (including deep and shallow) to remove various bolts and nuts on the suspension components.
– **Wrenches**
– An assortment of open-end and box-end wrenches to work on different sizes of nuts and bolts.
– **Spring Compressor**
– A specialized tool used to safely compress the coil springs before removal and installation to prevent injury.
– **Pry Bar**
– A leverage tool to help remove stubborn components or to align parts during reassembly.
– **Torque Wrench**
– A precision tool to ensure that bolts are tightened to the manufacturer’s specifications.
– **Impact Gun (Optional)**
– A power tool that can make removing and installing bolts quicker and easier, especially for stubborn or rusted parts.
– **Safety Gear**
– Safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself during the installation process.
### Suspension Lowering Kit Installation Steps
– **Preparation**
– Park the Subaru Legacy on a flat, level surface.
– Engage the parking brake and place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels for added safety.
– **Remove Wheels**
– Use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the front wheels.
– Lift the front of the car using the jack and secure it with jack stands.
– Remove the front wheels and set them aside.
– **Remove the Front Struts**
– Locate the strut assembly, which typically includes the strut, coil spring, and upper mount.
– Use the socket set to remove the bolts securing the strut to the steering knuckle and the top mount.
– Carefully detach the strut from the vehicle, being cautious of the compressed coil spring.
– **Compress the Coil Springs**
– Using the spring compressor, carefully compress the coil spring on the strut. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe operation.
– Once the spring is compressed, remove the top mount and any retaining clips to detach the spring from the strut.
– **Install the Lowering Springs**
– Replace the stock springs with the new lowering springs included in your kit.
– Reassemble the strut assembly by attaching the new spring to the strut and securing the top mount.
– **Reinstall the Front Struts**
– Carefully lift the strut assembly back into place and secure it to the steering knuckle and upper mount using the bolts removed earlier.
– Ensure all bolts are tightened to the manufacturer’s specified torque settings using the torque wrench.
– **Repeat for the Rear Suspension**
– Repeat the process for the rear suspension by removing the rear wheels and struts, compressing the rear springs, and replacing them with the lowering springs.
– Reinstall the rear struts using the same methods as the front.
– **Reinstall Wheels**
– Once all struts are installed, place the wheels back onto the vehicle.
– Hand-tighten the lug nuts before lowering the car back to the ground.
– **Lower the Vehicle**
– Carefully remove the jack stands and lower the vehicle using the jack.
– Once the car is on the ground, use the lug wrench to tighten the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern to ensure even pressure.
– **Final Checks**
– After the installation, take the car for a short test drive to check for any unusual noises or issues.
– It’s advisable to have the alignment checked and adjusted, as lowering the suspension can affect wheel alignment.
### Conclusion
Installing a suspension lowering kit on a Subaru Legacy can be a rewarding DIY project. By following these detailed steps and using the appropriate tools, you can enhance your vehicle’s look and performance. Always prioritize safety and consider consulting a professional if you’re unsure about any part of the process.
The exhaust flex pipe is a crucial component of a vehicle’s exhaust system, designed to absorb vibrations and accommodate movement between the engine and the exhaust system. Typically made from a flexible metal material, such as stainless steel, the flex pipe is strategically positioned in areas where the exhaust system must bend or shift due to engine movement, chassis flex, or suspension travel.
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