I'm looking at buying new struts for my Stratus. Has anyone had experience changing the struts on this car and what it takes to get the job done?

 

I changed the struts on my 95 Strat. It is a major PITA! The main things you need are a good set of spring compressors and a Haynes manual. Once I figured out the spring compressors, it went fairly smoothly. The front struts don't leave much room for the compressors. You have to position them just right to get the springs compressed and leave clearance to install them in the holder and in the car. I did all 4 of mine in about 6 hours, that included taking the old ones off and swearing I would never do struts again.
Hope this helps.
Marty

 

I prefer to remove the spring/strut assembly and use the compressors out on the ground

 

Thats what I'm thinking of doing. I just have to remember the poisitioning and since we'll be doing one at a time anyway it shouldn't be too hard. Heck, a hi-def preview photo wouldn't hurt either.

 

Any suggestions on this? I have a 99 Stratus and been looking on the net for input and information on how to remove/replace them myself. But thus far found nothing.

Where do you place the spring compressor at? Which side?

I have removed the passengers side strut out and now when I compress the spring and try to place it back [been at this for over 5hrs trying to figure it out]. The bolts [to the spring compressor] is getting in the way..


Thanks.