Problem installing new front struts

**Mnasrv** · 12-28-2011

Hello
I am trying to install new struts in my Pontiac Grand Prix GT and I'm having a problem and need help from someone who has done this before. When I removed the two lower bolts from the car, the hub assembly immediately moved upwards instead of downwords like I expected. When I removed the struts it immediately expanded and got stuck against the driveshaft. I was finally able to remove it by pressing down on the wheel hub until the struts came off. However I am now having problems installing the new struts because they seem to be too long and I'm not able to get the bolts to lineup with the holes. The new struts however are the correct ones and they are the exact same length as the old ones

Does anyone know why this is happening and how to get around it. The only solution I can come up with is to get spring compressors to make the struts shorter, install them and then to remove the spring compressors. I am not sure if this will work

Any advice or help will be greatly appreciated

**Bio248** · 12-28-2011

disconnect the sway bar.

**Mnasrv** · 12-28-2011

thank you I Didn't know that. can someone please explain what that will do? will it allow the wheel to drop further so that I can install the struts? Is it easy to do and then to install back?

**Dtrick22** · 12-28-2011

Yeah you just have to disconnect the end link...You'll get another inch of play. Sometimes you've gotta jack up the control arm or drop it down to get it to line up, depending on if the hole is higher or lower...little bit of wiggling, get one bolt in at a time.