I have only seen Monroe and "collision" (noname crap) complete struts.

 

Napa "Quick Strut" is supposed to be made by Monroe... Having a set installed tomorrow.

 

I started to say that, but couldn't remember for sure.

 

Well guys, even after Oldblue helped me with possible parts to go with KYB, I chickened out and ordered a pair of Gabriel quick struts. I had a final (hopefully) questions though; I know the two splined bolts on the bottom of the strut require persuasion to remove, but do they also require persuasion to put back in? The one good repair video shows the guy using an impact tool to "suck" the bolt back through the hole. I dont have an impact tool and that seems.....dangerous LOL.

 

No gentle tapping both ways works.

 

A hammer will work just fine. Both for removal and install of those bolts.
Just loosen the nuts, leaving the nut still on at the end of the threads to protect the threads. Then just knock it out with the hammer. You may need an extension punch to get a clear strike on the bolt.
You then just have to remove the nut and use a drift punch to get it the rest of the way out.
Install is easier. Just twist the bolts a little as you insert them back in. Twisting them so as to line up the bolts splines to the old grooves. Tap back in with the hammer.
AND. Remember to torque those nuts to the proper values.

 

I answered your PM .

 

Thanks for all the advice guys; I am a younger guy and new to all of this, but I really want to learn and do not want to depend on shops for these type of simple jobs. I also want to be able to help my son one day, and maybe spark his interest in cars as well. I also dont want to go in there and make a foolish mistake; one such I would have made without asking was not properly lining the splines with the old holes, I am glad you made that comment FMG. I do not have a punch, so I may just life the suspension itself to help ease tension on the bolts and such, as I read previously works, right?

 

Sure thing as far as easing the tension. I just didn't want to post a step by step on how to do the strut R&R procedure.

In my saying to use a punch, I didn't mean you you had to use an actual punch made for that purpose. Anything to extend the reach of your hammer so you can hit the bolt. I have a couple of 12" socket extension bars that I use all the time for that purpose. A 3/8" and 1/2" extension bar are in one of my tool boxes just for "punch" usage. Both have been used and mashed so much that they won't go onto a ratchet any more.

 

Funny that this popped up today. I just did the Monroe quick struts (and rear shocks) last Saturday. Yep, easiest struts I've ever done. Now if I would have had my head on straight and ordered the stab links, I would have been on the road in under two hours. (HAd to hit two parts stores to get two links)