Dimensions of a Strut Bar
Strut bar dimensions and weights differ. The aluminum variants weigh around 2 to 3 lbs while the steel ones are about 5 to 10 lbs. However, their role is the same: to improve the steering and handling of a vehicle.
How to Install a Strut Bar
Required Tools
- Torque wrench
- Drill bits
- Power drill (may be required on some vehicles)
- Marker
- Degreaser
- Clean dry rag
- Open-ended wrenches
- Socket set and ratchet
Note: install the strut bars with the car on level ground.
Step 1
Open the hood and look for the upper strut towers by the engine bay side. Use the degreaser and clean rag to tidy up the strut towers.
Step 2
Check the upper strut mounts. Look for the bolts and nuts. If there aren’t any, drill some holes.
Step 3
Take out the nuts that keep the upper nut onto the body. Put the strut mount over the studs. That is where the nuts are bolted in.
Step 4
Carefully test fit the bar. Do this by lowering the hood carefully onto the closed area. Look for any interference between the strut bar and the hood. The hood shouldn’t be forced up in the corners by the bar, and should close easily. The testing should be done regardless of the strut bar dimensions.
Step 5
Put the nuts in the strut bar. Fasten it using a torque wrench. Use the directions specified in the strut brace.
Step 6
Modify the middle nut in the bar (if it can be adjusted). This will tension the bar against the strut towers.
Step 7
Position the strut bar at the top of the strut towers. Note where the holes will be with the marker. If you haven’t done so, drill holes in it.
Step 8
Use the included hardware to set the strut bar in position. Some strut bars are installed with a nutsert, while others with nuts and bolts. The nutsert is a threaded component that is put in the drilled holes. The strut bar is bolted at these inserts.
Step 9
After you test the strut bar fit and hood, you can now test the car. There should not be any noises. The steering must also be smooth. If there are problems, go over the process again and check where you went wrong.
As long as the instructions are carried out properly, there should be no problems with the installation whatever the strut bar dimensions used. The newly installed strut bar should make driving more comfortable and less stressful.