After some recent repair successes, I am now considering replacing
front and rear struts on my 91 Max. However, I've heard a few horror
stories about DIY strut replacements gone awry.

My question . . . if I spend enough on a coil spring compressor (e.g.
up to $100), and exercise appropriate caution while working with it,
is this job unduly risky for a do-it-yourselfer or not?

I don't have money to throw around, but do need a working suspension.

Any informed feedback would be appreciated . . . especially from
anyone who's done the job.

Thanks

On Tue, 25 Nov 2008 15:21:02 -0800 (PST), krishnaya108 (AT) yahoo (DOT) com
wrote:

The risk is that the coil spring is not compressed properly, and
escapes from the spring compressor. You have the ensure that the
spring compressor clamps firmly hold the coils both before and during
compression.

Lots of auto techs perform spring replacements everyday.

I wouldn't spend money on a spring compressor. I belive Autozone,
Advance Auto or others will rent or loan you a compressor, ask.

Al Moodie.

Most autoparts will lend or rent the compressor.

When compressing the spring, make sure you are doing so evenly, meaning
the spring does not bend to one side. Some compressors come with clamps
that will help keep the spring from sliding out of the compressor.

IF the compressor/spring assembly does not feel solid, something is
wrong. Release the spring and re-position the compressor properly.

Take care and ... happy thanksgiving everybody!

Al Moodie wrote:

3rd Gen Maxima front strut replacement; Things to consider:
I've replaced struts on both of my 90 & 94's.
You can get the spring compressors from Autozone or OReilly's by just
putting down a deposit. Yes, make sure you tighten them evenly. The
3rd gen Maximas do not have front cam bolts on the front struts, which
can be frustrating when you take the car to a shop to get realigned.
They will say they can't get it into camber spec because it doesn't
have the cam bolts. I recommend you replace with the proper cam
bolts- maybe from Nissan instead of Autozone or other such retailers.
While your doing this job, which will probably take most or more than
a full weekend, you might want to check on your lower control arm
bushings. They tend to go bad after 100k miles. You can get a new
pair of arms for ~$180+. Don't mess around with replacing just the
bushings as they're too hard to press out and in. Also, check your cv
boots while you're down there. When you rent the spring compressor,
also get either a pickle fork or tie rod end puller to separate the
knuckle if you're replacing the lower control arms.
If you do all of this, you'll have a nice tight front end that will
stay aligned, be free of knocks and clunks, keep your tires wearing
properly and make the front end drive like new!

Chris
90, 94, 06 Maximas