Help! 1997 infiniti i30 under hood repair issue

[eritenah]

Hi,
My son has a 1997 infniti i30 and said it "felt like the axle came off" hard to control, etc.
I took a look and the first thing that caught my eye was what looked like a bullet hole on the hood.
When I opened the hood I saw this bolt or wahtever it is-sticking up from a hole which I have no idea what that is either.
I looked & looked for underhood diagrams & pics & I have no idea waht that is--maybe shocks, struts, frame??
Any help with ID of part, cause and repair option would be gretly appreciated..thanks!

http://i51.photobucket.com/albums/f396/ ... ec4a-1.jpg
http://i51.photobucket.com/albums/f396/ ... ectile.jpg
http://i51.photobucket.com/albums/f396/ ... /hood4.jpg
http://i51.photobucket.com/albums/f396/ ... arhood.jpg

[dbaxRonin]

Wow...never seen that before. That is your strut! That's bad, mmmmk.

[eritenah]

Thanks for your reply. Unfortunately slow in receiving as spam folder intercepted-which I've now corrected. Glad I wasn't around when that strut launched as like a high powered projectile!

Here's the scenario. We were planning to sell anyway and need to replace this and a few questions. I'm assuming this is the original equipment and wondering if
a) I can just replace just this or do I have to replace the pair--
b) How can I identify the actual part I need as when searching there is always several that are shown for this model.Some are gas or?
c) What else do I need to go with the strut-i.e. kit, or other associated items needed?
Money is very tight now and as soon as this is repaired-am going to sell.
Thanks for your input-much appreciated!

[loystock]

Here's the link for replacing shocks/struts. You have to replace in pair. Pay attnetion to the SAFETY WARNING.

maxima-spring-strut-replacement-4th-5th ... s%20struts

It may probably cost you @ $1000 to have the struts replaced (@ $700) and the hole on the hood repaired (@ $300). Try to shop around and ask friends/relatives for referral.

[NutriaforBreakfast]

Try Auto Zone for the parts
For $200 each you can have a complete assembly of strut & coil ready to install
I think they are Monroe branded
You dont even have to give them old parts
I havent bought them but inquired yesterday
Of course you will need to repair the hole

[eritenah]

Thanks so much for those replies!

A few questions:
1. Is it safe to drive the car now? I have had many cars but not this issue. Is the car in danger of going out of control at any time or is it more of a comfort issue--smooth ride vs. rough, for lack of a better description.
We haven't driven the car since as wanted to repair first, but do not have the funds to repair now.

2. Do both have to be repalced? I'm guessing not a good idea as the ride will be different-mixing old with new etc. I realize it's not like replacing 1 out of 2 tires?
In other words-I guess what I'm asking is- would there be any benefit to replacing 1 if we had the funds?
We will be selling ASAP as the car has like 165,000 miles and in rough condition..

Thanks again--much appreciated!

[loystock]

Have the suspension replaced, in pair if possible. Not worth taking the risk.