Bad Front Struts?

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langlang
Posts: 11
Joined: Fri Dec 06, 2019 6:35 pm
Car: 1990 s13 240sx hatch

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I have a 1990 s13 fastback 5 speed manual. Let me preface by saying I'm very new to any sort of suspension work when it comes to cars, so this may seem dumb but im a newbie

So the car drove like it had 0 suspension when I first drove it. Awful ride feel. The first thing i tried was the bounce test. The car didnt budge up front, but had some bounce in the back so I decided to lift the front end to inspect the knuckles. When I jacked the car up and the wheel was off the ground, I watched the tire and whole assembly shoot down like the strut tower was releasing tension. I set the car back down, and when I pressed on the fender the car compressed and lowered, and then... stuck? It stayed down. The other side did the exact same thing. I don't know what this means except that there IS an issue. If anyone has any ideas/advice/resources I would be grateful


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AZhitman
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Welcome aboard! No dumb questions here. :)

Sounds like the front struts are toast, but my concern is that something might be broken. Can you take pics of the strut assembly, the top of the tower (under the hood) and the strut (with the wheel off and the suspension hanging)?

Probably a pain in the butt, but will be helpful.

Also, where are you located? Let's see if we can find you a knowledgeable helper nearby!

langlang
Posts: 11
Joined: Fri Dec 06, 2019 6:35 pm
Car: 1990 s13 240sx hatch

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It is currently like 30 degrees and raining in the OKC area but as soon as it isn't I will. Where do you suggest I host photos at?


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