All,
Trying to get information on the rear strut assembly in my 2004 AWD Vibe before I take everything apart. I'm planning on replacing the struts all around on the car, as I'm at 150k and I believe the suspension is all original (Bought the car about 4k ago). Front drivers side is leaking for sure, rear passenger side spring looks like it might be broken near one end... Anyways, originally was thinking to go with Monroe Quick struts as I would prefer not to mess with spring compressors, but plan on doing this work my self. Front seems very straight forward/plenty of information on here/out on the web about it.
But I am a bit confused about the rear "strut assembly" for the AWD, I know it's different then for the FWD cars, I read in one thread here that it is a coil-over shock, instead of a strut, but I can't find anywhere else that says that. I have the appropriate "struts" picked out (MONROE 71375) and some moog springs to go with them, but what will I need to do to install them? Does it need to be pre-assembled? or does it all slide into place on the car? do I need a spring compressor? (I'm assuming I will..). I've never replaced suspension on a car before, but I'm quite handy and have all the tools I should need, I believe.
I'm just looking to restore OEM ride, not lowering or anything else... but any info helps! I've spent a while searching around here/google/matrix forums and have come up with frustratingly little info about the rear suspension for the AWD cars.
Thanks!