question about strut tools.

[Nuvo]

I've been looking into the strut tools needed to replace my shock absorbers.

The VW/Audi tools are VW524 and 3078.
I found this 3 piece kit and was wondering if the item pictured on the left can be used in place of the 3078 tool? I'm not sure if it could be a 22mm socket with a hex end at the top to attach a spanner to and insert the hex in from above?

The 3078 tool is essential a large 22mm deep socket with a window to allow a 7mm hex key to be inserted to stop the damper arm from turning.

EDIT: Oh I'm being silly it's three items and they are all the same. Is there an alternative to using the 3079 tool?

Thanks,
Rob.

[iain1067]

I have used a cranked ring spanner and allen key to undo the top nut, and the same tool as the pic to undo the nut that holds down the top mount once the strut is off the car.

iain

[Nuvo]

Thankyou Iain.

When rebuiding the the strut assembly, I could again use the cranked ring spanner and allen key until the top not is nice and tight and then torque it to the specified 200Nm with a calibrated wrench. Is that how you did it before?

When choosing a set of spring compressor what is the minimum working presser they can apply? I've seen two sets. One has a wp of 1.1kg and the other is 1.5kg?
Would the 1.1kg set be adequate do you know? (car has no air con).

Thanks.

[iain1067]

I don't actully remember using a torque wrench on the top nut, in fact you can't unless you have the right audi tool, becuase you need to hold the allen head with allen key, a decent cranked ring spanner will be fine, i have done this 3 times now on all of my old coupe audi's and never had a problem. As for spring compressors use the higher rated ones to be on the safe side, i am sure the smaller ones would do the joib though.

Iain

[hiltoa]

The cheap alternative to the VW tool for the slotted top mount nut is to dig out a spare 1/2 drive socket (I think the one I used was a 12mm but anything that fits inside the top mount centre hole snugly, and over the strut thread will do) and grind off enough of one end to leave two teeth to fit into the slots. Been using my 'Hiltoa tool number 3' for donkeys years on numerous VAG machines, together with a 22mm cranked ring spanner. You shouldn't need a torque wrench for the top nut, just make sure you always use a fresh nylok and nip it up nice and tight...

HTH.