Front strut inserts

[HFStuart]

Could someone measure the length of an insert for a coupe  / spider ?

The ones I've got in my spare set fit OK but the locking nuts only engage in the strut bodies by about 8mm - and I'd prefer a bit more. I'm wondering if the insert I've got of indeterminate make (marked with CW899 if that means anything to anyone) are a touch too long.

Thanks.

Stuart

[thecolonel]

Possibly "teaching grandmother to suck eggs" but
most inserts need to be rotated to align with the locators
in the bottom of the housing, that may gain another 10mm
or is there a spacer in the bottom of the strut that is stopping
the insert from seating properly.

I expect you've checked both of these but it's happened to me before.

Geoff

[HFStuart]

I've tried rotating the struts and it makes no difference - the base of the inserts is flush so I guess it wouldn't

On the spacer issue funny you should mention that but looking down the stut bodies i can see this.



No amount of persuasion would get it to move so I assumed it was part of the strut body  - if I'm wrong then great problem solved but how do I get the damn thing out ?

Stuart

[thecolonel]

It looks like a spring ring to me (15-20mm spacer ring of spring steel)
I would try to tap it round to loosen it, then possibly work it out with a pair
of hooks.
Others may have better suggestions.

Geoff

[WestonE]

Stuart

I think Geoff's description is accurate and it was probably tapped or pushed down the tube so time to make a puller probably out of studding and a plate if just pulling does not work. If you could connect a slide hammer it might be easier. I did wonder if striking the centre would deform the spring and weaken it, but it could make it impossible to shift!

Good Luck

Eric