2012 3.8 Front Strut Replacment

[QuantumRift]

Can't find any messages regarding this: I'm about ready to replace the front struts / rear shocks on my 2012 V6 sedan. In looking at the manual it says to: "Disconnect the front upper arm with the knuckle using SST 09568-2J100 tool. Is that a 'special' tool or can the result be obtained via another compatible tool? Also, are there any recommendations as to whether to stay with a Hyundai OEM part or an aftermarket part...just want some options... I'm lookin to learn something...what's better, pros, cons...etc

thx,

doug

 

[2010V6Tech]

Hi Doug, you can rent the Pitman Arm Puller OEM25297 from AutoZone and try if that will fit. Good luck and have fun with your strut replacement project!

 

[QuantumRift]

Thanks! I may even have one if its's just a pitman arm puller....I couldn't tell by the pic if it was 'special' or not. I'm not ready yet as I've not settled on a replacement strut...

d

Hi Doug, you can rent the Pitman Arm Puller OEM25297 from AutoZone and try if that will fit. Good luck and have fun with your strut replacement project!

 

[xiaphin]

Getting those to pop loose is the second hardest part of replacing the strut. Tried pickle forks and a handful of pullers but don't remember what I ended up using successfully. Hardest part for me was getting the assembly out from under the fender well.

 

[QuantumRift]

Do you or anybody else have any suggestions as to whether or not to stay with hyundai parts for the struts or look for an aftermarket fitment to give a better ride?

Hi Doug, you can rent the Pitman Arm Puller OEM25297 from AutoZone and try if that will fit. Good luck and have fun with your strut replacement project!

 

[QuantumRift]

My experience with pickle forks is that they tend to do more damage than anything else.....

Getting those to pop loose is the second hardest part of replacing the strut. Tried pickle forks and a handful of pullers but don't remember what I ended up using successfully. Hardest part for me was getting the assembly out from under the fender well.

 

[Ambush]

My experience with pickle forks is that they tend to do more damage than anything else.....

Sorry for the LATE reply not sure if you got this resolved. When I replaced my setup with coilovers I used tools from Harbor Freight.
That tool that is in the guide is just a ball joint separator that cost $19.99
(3/4 in. Ball Joint Separator by Pittsburg #99849)
Easy PEEZY. I mean REALLLY easy. I recommend using your jack to compress the spring back up if you have trouble. When I tell you these COILS made a night and day difference. MAN...
Good luck and please be careful!

 

[showbo]

Sorry for the LATE reply not sure if you got this resolved. When I replaced my setup with coilovers I used tools from Harbor Freight.
That tool that is in the guide is just a ball joint separator that cost $19.99
(3/4 in. Ball Joint Separator by Pittsburg #99849)
Easy PEEZY. I mean REALLLY easy. I recommend using your jack to compress the spring back up if you have trouble. When I tell you these COILS made a night and day difference. MAN...
Good luck and please be careful!

Same, got it at harbor freight for 20 bucks. Worked wonders.

 

[MorrisGray]

What parts did you all buy?
Struts? part number/brand?
Coilovers? part number/brand?
And how many miles on your car when they needed replacing?
>>> I am not a mechanic. My apologies if I asked a question that seems out of line.

 

[showbo]

What parts did you all buy?
Struts? part number/brand?
Coilovers? part number/brand?
And how many miles on your car when they needed replacing?
>>> I am not a mechanic. My apologies if I asked a question that seems out of line.

Struts I bought: MR-CDK-HG094D-EZII Megan Racing
Miles: 82k

If you are not comfortable with replacing these, I would highly recommend having a mechanic do it. Honestly after doing it, I wished I had paid someone else. But that's me, more power to you if you want to undertake it!

______________________________

Help support this site so it can continue supporting you!

 

[MorrisGray]

I am really good at taking stuff off but not very good at all replacing stuff correctly.
I have a son-in-law that is a good mechanic but he is reluctant to do anything I need doing. Now if my wife gets our daughter involved, it might get done but I would just as soon find someone else to pay if they know how to do what needs to be done.

 

[QuantumRift]

Nice struts (I looked at them on Amazon)...a bit pricey but no doubt justifies the ride. Is there anything that is less pricey but does a good job? Got 79K on the car....

Struts I bought: MR-CDK-HG094D-EZII Megan Racing
Miles: 82k

If you are not comfortable with replacing these, I would highly recommend having a mechanic do it. Honestly after doing it, I wished I had paid someone else. But that's me, more power to you if you want to undertake it!

 

[showbo]

Nice struts (I looked at them on Amazon)...a bit pricey but no doubt justifies the ride. Is there anything that is less pricey but does a good job? Got 79K on the car....

After riding with them for a little while now, unless you just need to have a dropped look, I would save and go with stock or stock r-spec. For me, the dropped look wasn't worth the ride quality. But I still need to adjust the damper settings. Riding at a soft level and a bit bouncy for my liking.

Megan is probably the cheapest out there, got them for 725 shipped. Don't think there is anything really cheaper.