Rep Power: 0

Hello,

I recently had a mechanic buddy assembly a new pair of struts for my 99 civic. [He has access to a spring compressor press.] I've since installed the struts in the car and everything seems fine.

Upon close inspection though, I noticed that he installed the damper mounting washer upside down when he assembled them. The lip of the washer is pointing down into the damper mounting rubber instead of up. This seems that it may tear the mounting rubber over time. See below exploded assembly image for part in question.



With the car on the ground so the springs are compressed under it's weight can I just remove the self locking nut, flip over the damper mounting washer, and reinstall the self locking nut? I don't have any more replacement self locking nuts, will this be a problem?

Is this a horrible idea?

Thanks much

 
Rep Power: 517

The washer directly under the top nut?

I'd try it.
Do NOT let the shaft drop down while the nut is off, or you will be screwed. Hard.

 
Rep Power: 0

Yup, that washer.

The damper is new so it should always extend but your warning is well taken.

Thanks, I'll give it a try in the near future and post the outcome.