Inner Nut - Front Struts

[dubs_17]

Hey guys...
How do I go about getting the inner strut nut (top, on the bump stop) to the proper torque spec? If I attach my torque wrench, there's no way to access with an allen wrench, so of course, the piston spins and I can't get the proper torque. Any suggestions? Should I just hit it with the electric impact?

[VAG_Tech]

Re: Inner Nut - Front Struts

Hey guys...
How do I go about getting the inner strut nut (top, on the bump stop) to the proper torque spec? If I attach my torque wrench, there's no way to access with an allen wrench, so of course, the piston spins and I can't get the proper torque. Any suggestions? Should I just hit it with the electric impact?

There's a special tool for that..

[dubs_17]

Re: Inner Nut - Front Struts

Aw crap...I've got the fronts back in. I just did the inner nut reasonably tight with the impact (trying not to break the bearing) and impacted the outer nut as well. I will go to VW tomorrow and get them to torque the outer nuts properly. Is this a safe idea, or should I wait and get that tool (where?) and re-do the fronts? Another Q...is it normal for the black plastic strut tower caps to not fit over the outer nut with the H&R Cup Kit?

[Volinder D]

Re: Inner Nut - Front Struts

Aw crap...I've got the fronts back in. I just did the inner nut reasonably tight with the impact (trying not to break the bearing) and impacted the outer nut as well. I will go to VW tomorrow and get them to torque the outer nuts properly. Is this a safe idea, or should I wait and get that tool (where?) and re-do the fronts? Another Q...is it normal for the black plastic strut tower caps to not fit over the outer nut with the H&R Cup Kit?

It's my understanding not to use an impact cause it could damage some bearing (or something along those lines). I did this install on an mkiv 6 years ago, and I remember reading something like that.

[dubs_17]

Re: Inner Nut - Front Struts

So...what DID you use, Vol? I've had to put this whole install on hold, 'cause I want to do it right; just waiting to find out the best solution.

[Volinder D]

Re: Inner Nut - Front Struts

I read the step by step off the vwvortex and I had the bentley manual and did exactly as illustrated. I know thats useless to you, but check the DIY on the vortex.

[dubs_17]

Re: Inner Nut - Front Struts

That's actually what I've been following, but they didn't address this specific problem at all. It sounded like they didn't use a torque wrench...just an offset flat wrench. I'm going to Acklands tomorrow to see what I can come up with.

[dubs_17]

Re: Inner Nut - Front Struts

Thank God, I figured it out...had to modify a spark plug socket and buy an allen key socket; worked like a charm! Suspension is almost done...started raining tonight, so only the fronts are done right now; talk about rake - gotta love it!

[nismodrifter]

Re: Inner Nut - Front Struts

rears take like an hour max...get er done yo.

[Notreknip]

Re: Inner Nut - Front Struts

Can't wait to see it. You'll now be able to do mine for me in 2 hours total, right?

[dubs_17]

Re: Inner Nut - Front Struts

Ah Devo...such faith in me. I'm pooped after getting that install done; of course I had to pick the hottest days possible to do it too. Glad it's done. That maiden voyage is always a great feeling; kinda like the first time I went for a rip after getting UpSolute'd. Good news too...only two cuts on my hand through the whole install - lol.