My old Bonne is rattling a bit up front and rides soft. Could be the 173k miles on it.

Checked the wheels for slop by raising car off ground and trying to wiggle the wheels left to right, and top to bottom. Seemed really tight.

What are some recommendations for strut replacements? I would like if anything a good, firm performance--oriented ride.

Do you need any special tools to do this, like a spring compressor (I imagine....)?

Thx.

No special tools are needed for the rear, only the front. BIG tools are needed for the rear.

Do you have ELC or FE2? Or no ELC and FE1? (check your rpo label on the spare tire cover if you're unsure).

Monroe Sensatrac are the preferred strut here. A bit firmer than stock, and you'll really notice the difference if your old ones are shot.

Willwren,

I am not sure what FEI and ELC are, but I assume some electronic controls (firmness and level??).

The car is at the dealer at the moment (which I NEVER do), but am getting a computer download that is supposed to fix an intermittant hesistation that I have been battling for years. A fellow BC member said that fixed his. I have no engine codes and have new stock plugs, high quality wires, new MAP, TPS, EGR, PCV, etc, etc. (Whole 'nother subject).

But, the car does not have any electronic suspension options other than traction control.

What kind of "BIG" tools are needed for the rear? I have a set of huge channel locks that can tackle most stubborn situations! .

I also have a leak in the left radiator reservoir. Is that as simple as pulling it and taking it to a radiator fix-it shop?

Thx!

If you have a radiator leak, replace it. Don't repair it.


By big tools, I mean 1/2" drive sockets and a good breaker bar. Channel-Locks aren't enough, and should never be used on anything other than spring-type hose clamps on your car.

Do you have the trunk inflator or rear levelling (air)? Some SLE'* (including mine) got that if they got FE2 suspension (same as the SSEi). When you see your car again, simply look to see which code you have. FE1 or FE2, and we can make a rear strut reccommendation from there. The front doesn't change based on that.

Yes, we do have 1/2" sockets, breaker bars and the like (impact gun too).

The channel locks come out only when I want to scare a bolt off!!! Generally, they don't get used.

I'll know later when I pick the car up about the suspension options.

Any suggestions on where to get a radiator?

Due to shipping charges on large boxes, I suggest getting one locally. Call around to a few radiator shops.

Thx, Willwren.

You are superb!

Just checked the codes and it is a FE1 and no ELC.

I would prefer a bit firmer ride than std equip. Would that require that I change the springs too?

Are the std equipment gas-charged? Are the Monroe'* gas?

BF

I've read up on Willwren'* recommendation for the Monroe Sensatracs and they sound like a good option.

Given that my Bonne has 173k miles should I get the entire "Quick Strut" with the spring and all of the other parts?

Thx.

Considering you have FE1, the quick strut may be a very good option for you. It'* easier, and will 'refresh' your front springs.

FE2 would be a bad candidate for that. It'* possible the springs in the quick strut would be a downgrade from the FE2 suspension package.