How to Change Struts on a Mercury Sable
A Mercury Sable strut supports the vehicle, acts as a shock and is an important part of the steering. Whenever your vehicle begins bouncing as you drive on uneven or rough roads, it is time for you to consider changing them.
Things That You Will Need
- A spring compressor
- A ½-inch drive air gun
- A set of ½-inch sockets
- A set of wrenches
- A floor jack with jack stands
- A set of 3/8-inch set of sockets
- A 3/8-inch drive ratchet
- Raise and support the vehicle on jack stands.
- Use the ½-inch air gun and the appropriate socket to take the wheels off.
- Lift the vehicle’s hood.
- Use a 10mm wrench to remove the brake line that is attached to the lower part of the strut.
- Use an 18mm socket and an air gun to remove the two large bolts and nuts.
- Push apart the strut and the spindle.
- Use a 3/8-inch drive socket and ratchet to remove the three 13mm nuts on the top of the fender.
- Use your hands to remove the strut from the vehicle.
- Place the strut into the spring compressor.
- Tighten the strut until the top bearing plate has no pressure on it and can be turned by hand.
- Use the ½-inch air gun and socket to remove the top nut.
- Remove the top bearing plate.
- Lift the spring off of the strut.
- Remove the strut rod’s cover and the rubber spring seat.
- Release the strut rod by pushing down while pulling the plastic holders off of the shock.
- Allow the rod to extend.
- Hold the strut upright.
- Place the rubber seat in the spring saddle so that the indentations match.
- Slide the spring into the strut.
- Install the top bearing plate.
- Use the ½-inch drive air gun and socket to screw on the top nut.
- Loosen the spring compressor.
- Use the ½-inch air gun and socket to remove it.
- Place the strut up into the fender well.
- Pass the studs through the top holes.
- Screw on the three nuts.
- Use the 13mm socket and ratchet to tighten the nuts.
- Insert the spindle arm into the recess in the strut.
- Insert the two large bolts.
- Screw on the nuts.
- Tighten with the ½-inch drive air gun and socket.
- Use a 10mm bolt and wrench to reattach the brake line.