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Re: Price search for some repairs 1 Saabers Like This Post! Posted by Doug W [Email] (#2371) [Profile/Gallery] (more from Doug W) on Mon, 13 Mar 2017 09:40:28 In Reply to: Price search for some repairs, adl6009 [Profile/Gallery] , Sat, 11 Mar 2017 22:17:00 Members do not see ads below this line. - Help Keep This Site Online - Signup |
5 to 6 hours of shop time sounds about right to JUST replace the struts. The rear shocks are pretty easy to do. If you drive where roads are salted, the top nut can be a challenge. I had to hold the shock shaft with some seriously big vise grips and then use an impact gun to free one of them. It's done with the strut on the bench so access is not a biggie.
Check the ride height in the rear. If it's low then when the shocks are out is the time to correct a sagging tail if that's an issue. There are lots of posts on this board about it and how to fix it.
Front struts are another story as you'll need a spring compressor and workmate or large bench vise. Spring compressors vary in price widely, and you may consider rental of one. Most DIYers use the threaded rod type. You can also buy complete struts, but why replace your springs if you don't need to?
Consider lower control arms with new bushings and ball joints at the same time as struts. You'll need an alignment after doing the job.
There are six front sub-frame bushings. The rear two commonly go but can be replaced without dropping the subframe completely. My indie charged me two hours labor and I supplied the Vauxhall bush tool ($100) for him to use. Doing all six bushings is a BIG job and entails complete removal of the subframe (6 - 8 hours). There are lots of posts about the subframe bushings on this board.
Good luck!
posted by 12.46....
_______________________________________ '03 Aero 5Spd, Krona, 290 bhp (son's) Sold: '04 Aero Sport Kombi, Sport Tek, BSR '03 Linear 5 spd. Krona Mods, 350 bhp
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