How to Break Loose the Knuckle From the Suspension When Replacing a Strut Mount

The next step in replacing the strut mounts in your car is to break loose the knuckle from the suspension. This will allow you to gain further access to removing the strut mount. This should be done after removing the wheel and fender well on most vehicles.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Inspect the strut mounts for the amount of corrosion and rust on them. This will help you determine how hard they will be to remove. If there is a large amount of rust and corrosion, they will be harder to pry off the suspension knuckle.

2. See if the strut is still located in the suspension tower or if it has fallen out and is swinging free. This will determine how you want to apply pressure to get it loose. They can break and swing free after enough corrosion and rust eats away at the strut mount.

3. Insert a four foot pry mac between the strut and suspension knuckle. Using your body strength and weight as leverage, pry the strut mount from the suspension knuckle. Do this in a direction that is not going to cause you injury if the pry mac slips loose.

4. Consider using a chemical lubricant to loosen the corrosion and allow you to pry the strut from the suspension knuckle if you are having a difficult time. Also consider having someone help pry the strut mount loose.

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