Having trouble with replacing strut inserts...

[Diplomat]

First of all, I'd like to thank all the folks who've contributed to my posted issues thus far. I've been training, working, and deployed for majority of last ten years and haven't been able to work on the M3 as much as I'd like to, so in a little rusty.

Here are my issues:

1 - Setting the strut/spring assembly correctly; how do I properly align the spring with the top hat (and top hat with spring perch/mount)? I get a grating sound when turning the wheel like the springs are not seated correctly...

2 - Releasing the strut insert from the housing; have not gotten this far, but was confused on how to deal with the housing collar when removing the actual strut. Again, thanks for your patience/help. - Hugh

[DRTSRFR]

1. All you need to do is make sure the top of the spring sits in the ramp correctly. The bearing will allow the spring to rotate to is static position once installed.

If you are getting binding of the hat, you are more than likely missing a washer between the hat and mount. Refer to the R3V link below my signature for a diagram of the front mount and washer.

2. There are a number of ways to remove the gland nut which retains the insert. Personally, I clamp the flange of the nut in a vice and rotate the housing to loosen the nut.

You can also use a large pipe wrench on the gland nut flange with the housing on the ground to loosen it, but it's tougher to hold the assembly.

Mark