strut install

[auto]

i installed a set of eibach sportlines, but had an extremely difficult time removing and installing the front passenger strut. when removing the strut, i unbolted the three top bolts of the strut then i had difficulty getting the two bolts at the bottom of the strut off. to remove the bolt i had to get a screw driver and hammer to pound the bolt out from the treaded side of the bolt. just as i popped out the last bolt the brake rotor flung downward and the strut dropped to the ground (scary). apparently, the strut was compressed which it shouldn't be (the spring should be compressed). when i attempted to reinstall the strut with the new eibach springs installed the bottom two bolt holes on the strut wouldn't line up with the holes the strut is supposed to mount on to. it was about two inches off. after several attempts and having a 200 pound friend push down on the brake rotor i was able to slip the bolts through.

i thought that maybe it was a problem with the strut, so i tried installing a spare stock strut and spring, but i had the same problem.

from my experience, i shouldn't have to use much force to install a strut. this actually bothers me a whole lot considering that i just purchased the car and i don't know the history of the car. does this mean there's something wrong with the suspension. maybe an accident? (body is straight, no shaking at low and high speed)

advice, comments, questions?

[Nismo_Freak]

I had the same problem installing my Teins. Only with the driver side front strut.

Except I had a 300lb friend

[auto]

nismo freak any problems with the suspension though?

i just don't want to invest into something that has any major problems.