Conference vmsnet::car$note:carbuffs

    
    	Question RE: Replacing gas cartridges in struts.  I want to 
    		give some new life to an elderly set of struts (165K+miles)
    		and the shop I asked said replace the cartridges.  I 
    		asked if there were bushings, etc, that should also be 
    		replaced, but was told "nope".  Somehow, this doesn't
    		sound quite accurate - can anyone supply me with some
    		more accurate info in regards to what I should really
    		pay attention to?  What good are new cartridges if other
    		components can't handle the job due to age and wear?
    
    	Chris

You should get the shop manual to see what else is in the suspension that
needs replacement.  I would imagine the ball joints and any bushings should be
replaced after 165K.  What type of vehicle is this?

Jim

    
    	RE: -.1  Toyota Celica, 87 vintage.  Cartridges in front, 
    		"regular" struts in the rear.
    
    	

    The strut cartridge is the strut.  The coil spring fits around it, 
    on the bottom of the spring is a rubber pad, which is re-used.  On
    the top of the spring is a bushing, which is usually re-used if it's
    not damaged.  This bolts to the chassis of your car.  Sheiding the
    top of the strut is a "bumper" (what it's called in the cavalier).
    It's a foam ring with a plastic boot over it.  This can be re-used as
    well if it's not damaged.
    
    MadMike