I just finished the BAT lower spring/strut kit install. I followed the CEG online how-to and I have a few comments.
1. Although the guide is helpful it would be even better if a list of required and recommended tools was included. This would save us dashes back and forth to the hardware store by borrowed car or bicycle (in my case once).
2. Include some suggestions on how to get that #$@*&% lower ball joint back on the knuckle. I probably spent 2 hours trying everything I could think of to get the first one back on. The last ball joint probably took all of 5 minutes. The how-to makes it sound so easy.
3. There is NO way in hell that I could get the inside upper nut back on the front struts without compressing the spring. The guide indicates that you just have to push down on the top hat. I got the rear on this way but NO way on the front without using the spring compressors - not even close.
4. If anyone asks me to help them replace their struts they'd better have about 5 bills with Ben Franklin's picture on the front for me. Find a shop that'll do it for $250 and save yourself the headache. Hey, but it looks (and drives) real nice now. Just don't ask me to do another one in my lifetime.
Ride height changes:
Before:
LF - 26 3/8"
RF - 26 1/4"
LR - 26 1/4"
RR - 26 1/4"
After:
LF - 25 1/2"
RF - 25 1/2"
LR - 24 7/8"
RR - 24 7/8"
Others have said that things settle down and it gets even lower after some driving so I'll check it again in a few weeks.
