[Notaguru]

This '90 DeVille has only 22k miles on it. It looks and drives like a new car, except that the front struts have weakened. The result is not only a soft ride, but annoying noise and bounce. It's not severe, but I'd like to do something about it. On the lift I also see that a boot is torn on one of the axles. I think it's just nineteen years that did it...

To me, it makes sense to replace the struts. I have seen a lot of solutions at the parts houses, ranging from complete assemblies - P/N 171797 - for $244 each at NAPA, to Gabriel Guardian struts - P/N 801516 - for $32 each at an online vendor.

And there's some market confusion. NAPA and other sources list shocks such as P/N RR 94002 for the front suspension. Very low cost, but I think it's an error because inspection suggests that there is no replaceable shock cartridge.

I'm sure there are many options. Considering the hour per side labor, I want to make the most cost-effective choice for this moderately-driven FWD Caddy.

As for the axles, rebuilt ones range in price from $30 to $60. I can also buy boots, but considering the labor that doesn't seem to make sense.

Advice? Experience?

 

[steelybill]

I replaced all the struts on my'85 FWD. The front struts (on mine) have two bolts in the bottom attachment, in elongated holes, for front end alignment. The top of the strut is also adjustable for alignment I think. ( don't remember) You will have to get the alignment done by a shop if replace them yourself, and they are built that way. If you have a boot that's torn, the dirt and road crap will likely get in the joint and chew it up, so I believe you should get that replaced.

hope this helps

 

[Notaguru]

Thanks. What struts did you use, and how do you like them?

 

[steelybill]

I bought mine at Autozone. They are available with or without the front springs. Of course they are more money with the springs, but a spring compressor is required to install the old springs on the new struts.
Many muffler shops replace struts, and have the spring compressor to do the job, and would likely change the springs to the new struts for you for a few bucks.

If you decide to do them yourself, the bolts holding the bottom of the struts must face in the direction they originally were. Take some pics before taking them apart, for reference.