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bobbber (not logged in) · Guest

Hi guys...

I'm well on the way through my Alfa 33IE restoration now....

But I'd like to know if anyone has detailed details (!) on how to replace the strut pan bearings?

On my 33, it 'honks' at the extreme lock on both sides... is it a UK MOT failure???

Thanks!

gritsop · Posted: Tue Sep 30, 2003 10:39 pm Post subject:

Hi,

It is rather easy to replace them provided that you have a spring compressor on order to tighten the spring and a ball joint puller to take the ball joint off the strut lever.
Then it is easy to remove the strut from the hub by unlocking the four screws. I would suggest to have the special tool during assembly in order to tighten the screws at the specified torque (39-48 Nm) but if you dont have it then it doesnot matter that much.
I replaced mine 10 days ago and it was a 2 hour job more or less working at my time.
Now a question how much do you bought them ? - In my country it costs 20€ per item

Regards
_________________
Thanassis Gritsopoulos
1991 Alfa 33 1.4 IE
2001 Alfa 147 1.6 Distinctive

http://www.alfa-restoration.co.uk
Parts Shop: www.alfa-restoration.co.uk/shop

GaryUK · Guest

You don't really need a ball joint splitter as the struts don't need to be seperated from the track-rod

bobbber (not logged in) · Guest

I just bought some new bearings - they cost £12 (about 20€) from my main Alfa Roeo dealer....

Now - I was once told that changing them resulted in up to 30 minutes use before they break again???? Has anyone worked out how to make them last a little longer???? Question

Thanks!

Rob

gritsop · Posted: Mon Oct 13, 2003 6:03 pm Post subject:

Hi,

What do you mean lasting 30 minutes use ????!!!!! Is your car a S3 model? When was it produced? The bearings are yellow, arent they?
Mine actually are the first pair that was replaced.

The first time was I think at 2000 (where the mechanic was a jerk and what he did was to apply a thick layer of grease which revitalised them for a couple of years) and then a month ago when I replaced them both by myself
The funny part of the story is that the left one completely went away and i was gathering the small balls here and there. The other one was stuck and the strut could move because of the heavy grease layer ...
Anyway, if you feel stuck let us know.

Regards
_________________
Thanassis Gritsopoulos
1991 Alfa 33 1.4 IE
2001 Alfa 147 1.6 Distinctive

http://www.alfa-restoration.co.uk
Parts Shop: www.alfa-restoration.co.uk/shop

alfa-alex · Guest

while your at it change the rubber boots that protect the bearings from the elements...even if they are in the good condition its worth the £8 because the old ones can split fairly quickly

bobbber · Posted: Mon Nov 17, 2003 10:08 am Post subject:

I've changed the boots already! Seemed like a good idea as you could see the shiny metal struts underneath through the ones I had! LOL!

I also have some like 'rubber bands' which go below the yellow bearings... I have stretched these up inside the bottom of the bearings along the bearing 'seam'. I assume this is to keep the dirt out - if not, I can't imagine where else they go!!! Is that correct?!

Thanks chaps!

Rob
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Fiat Bravo 165 Sport

graeme · Alfasud Joined: 16 Mar 2003 Posts: 64

Demon Tweaks do an uprated bearing. Let me know if you wont more info.
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16v p4 In pieces.