Technically I believe a "STRUT" is a load bearing suspension component, in other words supporting the spring. It's also a convenient place (for the manufacturer) to house a shock. Personally I dislike having to replace a shock on a strut suspension.

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'83 240D with 617.952 and 2.88
'01 VW Beetle TDI
'05 Jeep Liberty CRD
'89 Toyota 4x4, needs 2L-T
'78 280Z with L28ET - 12.86@110
Oil Burner Kartel #35

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