need quick help (installing new front struts)
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08-15-05, 11:50 AM
#8
My wife bought me 2 RX-7s
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Location: Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
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It's for heat transfer, to keep the struts cool.
I used gear oil, 'cause it was around. I think any weight oil would work, and so would antifreeze. The problem with antifreeze is that it sloshes out the top nut, whereas the gear oil stays put.
Just my .02
I used gear oil, 'cause it was around. I think any weight oil would work, and so would antifreeze. The problem with antifreeze is that it sloshes out the top nut, whereas the gear oil stays put.
Just my .02
08-15-05, 05:53 PM
#10
84SE-EGI helpy-helperton
It is recommended that you put standard 'gear oil' or '20-30wt Engine Oil' in with the struts when you reassemble them - this allows for better heat transfer between the strut cartridge and the strut housing - and could lengthen the life of your struts.
As you're likely aware, the struts work by converting the kinetic energy of motion (the strut rod and pistons through the strut oil) into heat. When this heat is generated, it needs to be carried out somewhere or else it gets 'stored' in the strut cartridge. The more you drive, the hotter it gets, and the oil inside the strut is designed to operate at a specific temperature range. Overheat the strut and you will A) lose performance, and B) shorten its lifespan.
You only need about a 1/2 cup of oil in the strut tube before you insert the strut itself. You want enough in there that the strut cartridge is in a bath, but not so much that it's leaking out the top as you're putting the spacers and lock nut in place. Get that locknut tightened to spec, BTW - it's important.
Reply back if further questions,
As you're likely aware, the struts work by converting the kinetic energy of motion (the strut rod and pistons through the strut oil) into heat. When this heat is generated, it needs to be carried out somewhere or else it gets 'stored' in the strut cartridge. The more you drive, the hotter it gets, and the oil inside the strut is designed to operate at a specific temperature range. Overheat the strut and you will A) lose performance, and B) shorten its lifespan.
You only need about a 1/2 cup of oil in the strut tube before you insert the strut itself. You want enough in there that the strut cartridge is in a bath, but not so much that it's leaking out the top as you're putting the spacers and lock nut in place. Get that locknut tightened to spec, BTW - it's important.
Reply back if further questions,
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