Forums/Z31P/z31-performance-upgrade-forums suspension-chassis-and-brakes/Tokico Illumina front strut installation trouble
Imported from Z31Performance.com Forums{{#if:XiOus271| — original post by XiOus271}}{{#if:2009-04-19 03:25:20|, posted 2009-04-19 03:25:20}}{{#if:11| · 11 post{{#ifeq:11|1||s}}}}{{#if:/Z31performance_archive/forum/z31-performance-upgrade-forums/suspension-chassis-and-brakes/7191-tokico-illumina-front-strut-installation-trouble.html|
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XiOus271: (2009-04-19 03:25:20)
On my 86T, I am just getting around to installing my Illumina front struts. The passenger side cartridge went in quite easily, I did not really have much trouble with that. However, I was doing the drivers side today and that damn thing has about 1/8" to go before the gland packing can reach the threaded section. For fear of causing some damage, I have held off on trying anything else. What have you guys done when installing these? I looked at my FSM, spent some time on Google, but I would like to hear from some of you as to how you did it. I realize it is something as simple as getting it down the tube, but I don't like taking chances on screwing suspension/brake components. Thanks.
NissanEgg: (2009-04-19 04:13:40)
Did you drain all the old fluid out of the tube first?
XiOus271: (2009-04-19 04:14:56)
Yes I did. I followed the procedures outlined in the FSM.
XiOus271: (2009-04-19 04:31:03)
Based on what I am reading and seeing, these should not have to be forced into place. Is this correct?
vagabond: (2009-04-19 15:19:38)
There should be no issue.
Domdogg123: (2009-04-19 17:21:15)
Make sure the O-ring isn't gumming up you sliding it down.
TearingRaven: (2009-04-19 21:21:15)
I would get in there with a flash light and made sure there is no debris lodged down in the bottom. Also, make absolutely sure that the tube is not dented.
XiOus271: (2009-04-20 00:43:03)
Update: I took the strut housing and cleaned the hell out of it. The cartridge went in much easier and I managed to everything put together. However, if I ever need to take it out, it seems like that won't be a very fun job as the last little bit was still pretty tight. I decided simply cleaning it when I took the old one out wasn't enough, it needed a damn good scrubbing and it worked from there. Thank you all for your input.
Gregmatic: (2009-04-20 01:15:22)
sometimes the cartridge needs to be sanded just a bit. Removal is easier than you think. Just thread the top nut over a large washer and hang that in a vice. Tap gently on the spindle portion of the housing (or on the caliper mounting ear) and it will usually slide right off. Apply a bit of heat/penetrant as needed if needed. This will also keep the shaft from getting damaged
XiOus271: (2009-04-20 03:40:24)
I'm going to have to remember that one, sounds pretty good to me. Thanks again!
K_Scheeringa: (2009-04-20 12:22:03)
Another thought is to apply a little anti-seize on the tube before sliding it in..
Not too much to cause trouble, but something to keep things from sticking together..
These are good tips, as I also have a set of illumina's waiting to go into a set of turbo tubes..