Ok, I just replaced my rear struts, and here's my question:

On the center post at the top, where the single nut is holding the top onto the coil (just under the tower cap), is there a measurement that is normal for that nut to be down from the top? My thought is that the closer the nut is to the top, the higher the rear will be (kind of). It's hard to explain, but I'm sure someone out there knows what I mean, right

Thanks...

Carl

 

the ride height will be determined by the springs, the nut you refer too holds the strut to the mounting bracket and should be tightened down as far as you can get it...........

 

Jimmy's right. What you're speaking of has nothing to do with ride height. I just changed all 4 struts on my Z. Get that top nut good and tight. We just used an air gun. If I remember correctly, there was about 3/4" - 1", maybe slightly less, of threads showing above the center nut once it's re-assembled. You do not want that to come loose. If you're using a spring compressor; and if you're not, I recommend finding one, use it to compress the spring, not the center nut.

 

I have about 1.5 to 2" of thread on top and their not tight yet. Maybe that has to do with the strut mfg.. Just an idea I had in mind. But it does seem to me that as your tightening that nut, it's compressing the spring at the same time, even a little bit...

 

It is, your putting tention on the spring, but you do want it tight so there is no slop in between the 2. You did put the insulater's in right?

 

Yes, all parts are in place correctly. I was just thinking that if I left the nut loose enough (which everything is still tight), then I could gain some height and put a backup nut on top of the single nut to keep it in place...

 

You could be right about the manufacturers. I changed over to Tokico Illumina's with Eibach pro springs, so if you used anything different there may be more of the threads showing. A lock nut is a good idea on that. I honestly can't remember what we did when putting them back together. I'll try to remember to take a look at it tomorrow and let you know.

 

Well, I asked an aquintance that was a Z specialist with Nissan for 25 years, and he told me they have to be all the way in until they stop. So now my problem is getting the post to stop turning as I try to tighten them up...

Thanks for all the replies!

 

Use an impact gun. It'll save you lots of time. You definitely don't want to grab the rod with anything. You'll most likely damage it, which will cause a leak. The warranty will be void if you damage the rod. If you don't know anyone with an impact gun, you could probably take it to any autoshop, i.e. Midas, Aamco, Wheel Works, etc. They use air guns/impact guns every day. It would probably take 5 minutes of their time.

 

That's a good idea. I'll give that buddy of mine a call, since he recently opened a body shop

Thanks a ton!

 

Usually the end of the strut is not totally round, there should be a spot for a small wrench to hold it with........

 

Yes, there is a spot like that on top, but I can't get an open end wrench down inside the tower to turn the nut while holding the top portion with something. That's the big problem. I would have to get an open-end wrench with angled end. I'm going to check into that first, I guess. Maybe try a drill with the 17mm(?) deep socket on it...

 

I like your avitar and signature combo. Nice 280ZX! (and its a good size too. not so HUGE like Icice's picture)

 

I have a drawer full off special wrenchs I have made over the years. Take an old wrench and a torch and bend it like you need...........

 

Well, the crappy digital camera doesn't show all the little imperfections in the paint, but I do try to take care of it. It's in need of a paint job and some rust removal (above the windshield). Thanks for the kudos, though. It's appreciated!