Hey guys, this is my first time to actually post here, but I've been looking a bit and this seems to be a great forum!

Anyways, on my '89 RX-7 I think that the struts are worn out. When I turn, etc. a creaking sound comes from the front of the car, especially in cold weather. Am I right in thinking it is the struts?

Thanks guys!

 

It's probably your upper strut mounts. There's a bearing in the top part of the strut assembly that gets crudded-up. When I replaced my struts a few years ago, I cleaned and re-packed these bearings and the creeking mostly went away. I don't drive my 7 much though so YMMV.

 

Thank you.

How hard is this to check, and/or remove to re-pack? Do the fenders have to come off?

If they are shot where can I get new ones?

 

I replaced mine when i replaced my shocks and springs. You can go to autozone and they will have new ones (they were like $50ish OEM replacements by Monroe)... they are part of the whole assembly that you will pull apart with the help of a spring compressor you can rent. If I were you I'd just replace all the stuff at once and save yourself time... I bet your front struts are shitty anyway.

 

So replace struts and strut mounts? Anyone make aftermarket struts? Is it hard to switch these things out?

 

It's a very simple procedure. I advise picking up a Haynes Manual (or download the FSM...actually do both!), and giving it a good read over before you decide to change them out. Also, there are several aftermarket replacements that will give you better handling, but probably worse ride quality. If you're happy with how your car feels now, then look for some desent stock replacements.

 

Alright, will do. I'll look at Autozone tomorrow when I got to look for strut mounts and struts. Where can I download the FSM?

 

From the FAQ.