Front strut insert tool

[Knockwurst]

Hi all,

MOT passed today The MOT guy was impressed with my winters efforts.

However, my newly rebuilt front suspension started to clonk. It was the near side strut insert working loose. I have used an angle grinder wrench to tighten, but can't get enough torque to fully tighten it. Is there a correct tool available. I have standard paddock shocks with the 4 hole insert.

Thanks in advance
Simon

[Ian F]

Simon

Some of the inserts need a packing washer beneath them, unsure though whether this includes Paddocks ones, but I suspect they do. I also assume you peened the securing nut once you'd tightened it?

i am sure Julian, Russ or someone more knowledgeable will confirm?

Ian

[Knockwurst]

Thanks Ian,

It doesn't rattle when tight, so I am assuming I didn't need the spacing washers. However, I didn't peen it. That'll be the problem then. Do I just need to tighten and then use a punch to push the thread into the insert?

Thanks
Simon

[Ian F]

That's what I did with mine and the previous owner had done the same. Shame you'll have to take the strut(s) off again!

[jleyton]

Thanks Ian for your confidence in Russ and myself - unless you meant 'someone more knowledgeable' than us

I'd have said pretty much the same as you and yes Simon, if the top has come loose then i'd just retighten and peen, as you have described.

I've made a tool to tighten the original tops and you're welcome to borrow it if it would be of any use, however I don't know if it will work with the Paddocks inserts.

Good luck. Cheers

Julian

[Knockwurst]

Thanks gents. I can reach the top of the strut by jacking the car up, so I'm hoping to be able to to it without too much disturbance.

Simon