Getting ready to replace rear sturts and springs Options

[ShadowPhantom]

Getting ready to put used stock struts and springs on the rear end this weekend (thanks hurley97). Right now the car makes a loud knocking sound over every bump I hit. What are the chances that the rear strut mounts are still good? I really don't want to put alot of money into her as she is quite the beater. What has everyones experience been when changing out the rear end? I don't think I can get rear strut mounts locally. If I do need them where is the cheapest place to get them? I just want OEM quality. Not looking for pillow balls.

Also can someone point me in the right direction for a how-to link?

Thanks Again,
Chris

[LewFX]

it could also be worn sway links, loose links, suspension arms, etc.

[ShadowPhantom]

it could also be worn sway links, loose links, suspension arms, etc.

I will check all the linkage when I do the swap. Should I replace bushings while I have it apart? Can I get them at say Pep Boys or AutoZone? I would really like to use the existing strut mounts. It wouldn't be such a big deal if I could get the mounts locally. Everyone seems to just sell the fronts!

[Batman722]

you can get the sway bar bushings from toyota, they are about $7 each and well worth it.

[trdproven]

hmm, this may be the same problem as my camry. For some reason, when I am turning with my Camry, and I run over a puddle of water, my steering kinda tightens up and I can't really turn it. I think my muscles have gotten bigger since I had been dealing with that for a while now.

[hurley97]

Your welcome Chris. Glad you got it intact, I think I put enough packing material in the box I hope it helps your problem a little.

It seems that ToyotaWorld wants $86 ea for the top mounts.
You could put everything in using your old top mounts and hope it solves the problem, but it would be a huge pain in the arse if you have to take it all out again. It might have something to do with the rubber piece between the spring and the mount too.

hmm, this may be the same problem as my camry. For some reason, when I am turning with my Camry, and I run over a puddle of water, my steering kinda tightens up and I can't really turn it. I think my muscles have gotten bigger since I had been dealing with that for a while now.

I don't think its your suspension. When too much water splashes up into the engine bay it messes with the electrical system and you probably notice all your lights dim, the same sort of thing happens to your power steering.

This post has been edited by hurley97: Oct 2, 2006 - 3:39 AM

[trdproven]

Your welcome Chris. Glad you got it intact, I think I put enough packing material in the box I hope it helps your problem a little.

It seems that ToyotaWorld wants $86 ea for the top mounts.
You could put everything in using your old top mounts and hope it solves the problem, but it would be a huge pain in the arse if you have to take it all out again. It might have something to do with the rubber piece between the spring and the mount too.

hmm, this may be the same problem as my camry. For some reason, when I am turning with my Camry, and I run over a puddle of water, my steering kinda tightens up and I can't really turn it. I think my muscles have gotten bigger since I had been dealing with that for a while now.

I don't think its your suspension. When too much water splashes up into the engine bay it messes with the electrical system and you probably notice all your lights dim, the same sort of thing happens to your power steering.

I have an engine cover though, it shouldn't be touching electrical, my lights don't dim either.

What I think it is is prolly part of the suspension when oil and water mix, what you think?

[cheeco]

hmm, this may be the same problem as my camry. For some reason, when I am turning with my Camry, and I run over a puddle of water, my steering kinda tightens up and I can't really turn it. I think my muscles have gotten bigger since I had been dealing with that for a while now.

water is splashing onto the power steering belt and causing it to slip. should stop if you tighten the belt some.

[trdproven]

^ sounds good, worth a shot to try, where is that piece located, I don't have a manual.