about the bounce test not being reliable for bilsteins. long before they fail that your ride quality will be gone. when it starts to feel bouncy they are worn out. i would look for this on average from 80 to 100k miles.

a strut provides the top part of the suspension assembly and bears half the weight of the car at that corner. the top rides in a large bearing that allows it to turn without twisting the shaft in the strut.

they can be changed at home but the spring requires a spring compressor and using a spring compressor is dangerous business. lots of folks do this at home but i personally dont.

agreed the rear shocks are an easy doityourself job.

tom w

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[SIGPIC] Diesel loving autocrossing grandpa Architect. 08 Dodge 3/4 ton with Cummins & six speed; I have had about 35 benzes. I have a 39 Studebaker Coupe Express pickup in which I have had installed a 617 turbo and a five speed manual.[SIGPIC]

..I also have a 427 Cobra replica with an aluminum chassis.