SuspensionFilter: Can a strut jam?
December 8, 2005 12:30 PM Subscribe
Can a strut fail such that it doesn't move? My 96 Grand Prix has a rear wheel of which the suspension is a bit squashed in and stuck. It looks as though there is a bit of weight in the trunk, but of course there isn't. It won't compress when I push on the fender, nor will it extend when I jack up the car. Has anyone heard of this before? Can I do anything other than have new struts put in?
Response by poster: Good. I was scared to think what else could cause this sort of behavior.
posted by kc0dxh at 1:36 PM on December 8, 2005
posted by kc0dxh at 1:36 PM on December 8, 2005
I had this happen once to my '83 Toyota Tercel (laugh if you will, but it was an awesome car). Turns out after standing on the back bumper and jumping for a few minutes I actually got the strut to let go... spraying water everywhere (picture a supersoaker).
As you know by now, you need new struts... and though your probably know this you're going to want to replace both of them to avoid destroying your tires through uneven wear.
posted by sablazo at 1:46 PM on December 8, 2005
As you know by now, you need new struts... and though your probably know this you're going to want to replace both of them to avoid destroying your tires through uneven wear.
posted by sablazo at 1:46 PM on December 8, 2005
Response by poster: Yes, I know to replace them in pairs, and my mechanic won't let me screw up like that, but thanks for the tip.
Wish I'd seen that strut blow! Too, I wish I could get mine to release. The ride is unbareable. I'd bet the springyness would be better that what I've got now. But, no matter. The car get's it's time in the shop tomorrow morning.
posted by kc0dxh at 2:34 PM on December 8, 2005
Wish I'd seen that strut blow! Too, I wish I could get mine to release. The ride is unbareable. I'd bet the springyness would be better that what I've got now. But, no matter. The car get's it's time in the shop tomorrow morning.
posted by kc0dxh at 2:34 PM on December 8, 2005
Also, you may want to take a quick look-see to make sure your spring isn't broken. Where a frozen strut is quite uncomfortable, a broken spring can be very dangerous.
posted by freq at 4:22 PM on December 8, 2005
posted by freq at 4:22 PM on December 8, 2005
Response by poster: It was indeed the strut. I'm getting the rear struts replaced now. Thanks gang.
posted by kc0dxh at 8:11 AM on December 9, 2005
posted by kc0dxh at 8:11 AM on December 9, 2005
This thread is closed to new comments.
posted by Kirth Gerson at 12:32 PM on December 8, 2005