Front Strut Mounting Problem

[Je1279]

So I finally got around to installing the Ford Performance front struts today, but I just ran into a problem. When I install the strut the only way it goes in on the top, the bar pin at the bottom is 90 degrees out of alignment. Is this something that will require the spring to be compressed and the orientation of the mount changed or can I mount the top of the strut and somehow muscle the bar pin into the correct location? Any assistance is greatly appreciated.

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[Natetroknot]

Mount the top hat and stick the longest screwdriver you have in one of the bottom mount holes of the shock and rotate it. No harm no foul.

 

[Je1279]

Much appreciated @Natetroknot! I owe you a ?.

 

[Je1279]

For those who may not have a screwdriver that works, an 18" pipe wrench on the bar pin can also be used to allign the strut correctly.

 

[Ebrou]

@Je1279, how is the ride with the Ford performance struts/shocks compared to stock?

 

[Je1279]

@Je1279, how is the ride with the Ford performance struts/shocks compared to stock?

I left the struts at the 2" setting and the ride is definitely firmer than stock, but not uncomfortable. I added new wheels and LT295/60R20 E rated tires at the same time so I'm sure they also contributed to the additional firmness.

 

[Grafx36510]

I left the struts at the 2" setting and the ride is definitely firmer than stock, but not uncomfortable. I added new wheels and LT295/60R20 E rated tires at the same time so I'm sure they also contributed to the additional firmness.

I thought about this set mainly because I want a tad more level in the front. Then I encountered a parking garage that was 6’8”.

 

[Je1279]

I thought about this set mainly because I want a tad more level in the front. Then I encountered a parking garage that was 6’8”.

Fortunately, the parking garage at my work has 7' of clearance. I definitely made sure to check that though prior to adding the leveling kit and larger tires. I also plan to keep the stock antenna on for a bit and use it as a go/no go indicator for questionable areas.

 

[Ebrou]

I left the struts at the 2" setting and the ride is definitely firmer than stock, but not uncomfortable. I added new wheels and LT295/60R20 E rated tires at the same time so I'm sure they also contributed to the additional firmness.

Thank you for the reply. I have a 21' and you have a similar setup as I do. I appreciate the feedback, as I have been looking to go this route. I'm primarily highway, but my stock shocks have become so floaty with my now 52K miles on them, so looking for an upgrade.

 

[Vin]

... I also plan to keep the stock antenna on for a bit and use it as a go/no go indicator for questionable areas.

This is the way.

My buddies bust my chops for my uncool long antenna, but I trimmed it to be 1" taller than my truck and it lets me know if I can make it into a garage without getting out of the truck.

 

[Snakedoctor]

Mount the top hat and stick the longest screwdriver you have in one of the bottom mount holes of the shock and rotate it. No harm no foul.

Much appreciated @Natetroknot! I owe you a ?.

How exactly does this work? Im in the same boat right this minute and im not understanding how I can rotate the bottom mount to line up.

 

[Je1279]

How exactly does this work? Im in the same boat right this minute and im not understanding how I can rotate the bottom mount to line up.

You just need to twist it to align it with the holes in the lower control arm. If you have a large pipe wrench, that is likely the best tool for the job. Just grab onto one side of the bar pin at the bottom and twist until the holes align and the bolts go through.

 

[Snakedoctor]

You just need to twist it to align with the holes in the lower control arm. If you have a large pipe wrench, that is likely the best tool for the job. Just grab onto the bolt mounting pin at the bottom and twist until the holes align and the bolts go through.

I guess I just don’t understand where I’m getting any leverage from. I can’t seem to get it to budge at all.

 

[Snakedoctor]

You just need to twist it to align with the holes in the lower control arm. If you have a large pipe wrench, that is likely the best tool for the job. Just grab onto the bolt mounting pin at the bottom and twist until the holes align and the bolts go through.

Okay I said screw it and used an adjustable hammer and got it!

 

[Je1279]

Okay I said screw it and used an adjustable hammer and got it!

Whatever gets you there. Glad that you got it sorted!

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