Replace Rear Struts Ford Taurus Sedan

[@johncoccia607]

This is the best detailed videos on front and back struts and swaw bar links that I have watched

[@jstutz101]

just completed this today on my kids 2003 Taurus. I wasn't brave enough to use heat on the pinch bolts like you, just lots of PB Blaster. There is no way I would even attempt a repair like this without your video assistance. Thanks for all you do!

[@SouthMainAuto]

+jstutz101 Glad it helped!

[@hollowheresy]

jstutz101 Did you have to do anything with the sway bar? I know that he cut his in half. lol. I need to replace mine on my 03 Taurus and I don't want to get in over my head.

[@tkirk5582]

Too bad I don’t have a torch

[@mikeschiavoni5973]

@@hollowheresy he cut the old sway bar links, not the sway bar. The sway bar attaches to the links, the links attach to the strut.

[@tiffanythayer4894]

I do believe this is the best video I've ever watched on KZbin when it comes to a do-it-yourself car repairs I've never seen anybody show in detail and explain in detail so well thank you so much for your help

[@michaelburrows9219]

Thanks, Eric! I did this job today on my son's 2000 Ford Taurus SEL. It was very much like your video. I heated the spindle with a propane torch, got the bolt out with an impact, air hammered the strut loose and the rest was eazy-peazy. I found that lifting the knuckle and compressing the spring with a small floor jack while the car was still on the stands helped to get the stabilizer link in it's hole. Keep up the good work. You're helping many people with your contribution. I'm headed over to ring the Patreon bell now.

[@joshcook7907]

This is my job today. Not a mechanic but thanks for the step by step. I have learned a lot just by repairing my vehicles and watching how to videos like yours.

[@comingundone27]

Its nice to see a mechanic who works like an actual BUSY mechanic. Ive watched that other ERIC show who only seems to work on 1 or 2 cars a day and can switch tips on his torch for heating and cutting. You work like I do and keep the cutting tip on and use it for everything. Way to be honest and show how its really done when your BUSY!

[@SouthMainAuto]

+Nick Palmer Thanks Nick, I think He is just an entertainer not running a real shop so it may be a bit different pace there..

[@comingundone27]

+South Main Auto Repair I run a shop in Michigan and I for sure know your issues with rust. I can say you have taught me a few new little tricks to breaking things loose with the air hammer and rotors. I use to just beat the crap out of them, never thought of the air hammer breaking the rust loose.

[@Mr1279Dave]

Old video quality was fine, it's the content that counts. Thanks for doing this.

[@SouthMainAuto]

***** Thanks Dave and thanks for watching

[@MrTrailerman2]

If there ever was a Merlin the magician of automotive, Eric is him. As always your skill is always paramount.

[@Dmax04]

Video was very helpful. Replaced struts on a 99 Sable today with 197000 miles with original struts. Heated with a torch and bolt came right out. Used the air chisel like you said to drive the knuckle down and it worked perfect. Made what could have been a real pain a simple job. Also replaced front sway bar links that were original. I`m sure it would have taken a lot longer if I hadn`t watch your video first. Thanks again.

[@SouthMainAuto]

Dmax04 Glad it helped you out :)

[@risc19]

Thanks for uploading in 60fps, it looks great.

[@SouthMainAuto]

***** Thanks

[@fonzo2525]

This is the video that got me hooked on SMA,also helped get the rear links done on my Taurus,which is also a rust bucket back there,when i bought the car an old man told me to get that thing undercoated or i'd be sorry,i didn't listen,now i'm sorry,lesson learned,listen to your elders.

[@davidperkins9538]

Getting ready to do this myself and SO glad I watched your Video. Getting that back seat apart was something I'd not done before and your video gave me the REAL inside scoop! Thanks much.

[@paulpurdue5963]

My 751,000 mile 2003 taurus ses with almost all original equipment, replaced front wheel bearings at about 600,000 miles, but engine and transmission, struts, ball joints, etc... are all original, never rebuilt. While watching video, I say to myself that I should change those parts, but after watching, I say if it's not broke ! Don't fix it ! Going for the one million !

[@schweit10]

I don't usually add comments to videos I watch. I find that many times the angles are horrible, you can't see what's going on, of the completely gloss over the very part (usually the most difficult part) you're trying to see how to do. Or the person creating the video can't put together two complete sentences. But your video was perfect. Showed exactly what to do, with great angles and great insight. Just the right about of humor and tips, but still keeping with teaching in the video. It's not like you're trying to be an amateur comedian! Anyhow, freaking great video.

[@jptrainor]

The HD is great. Noticeably improved video quality. I feel like I'm watching This Old House for cars.

[@CheetoTheCat]

The image on the blue pen you found under the back seat, is a moon and a palmetto tree, and it's from the state flag of South Carolina. Another excellent video, as always.

[@joeacfalle2380]

It is a great improvement in video. I can see the details of your work and points of interest during this video. Though it is a bit more to use, your teachings on repair has gained a notch with the higher resolution of the video. Thanks for updating, and now to wait for your next video.

[@golfmanmatt]

Thanks Eric, I just did this on a 2007. I was able to get the bolt out with MAP gas and hand tools. I used a quick strut from Moog which came with a new pinch bolt and smothered it with anti-seize. appreciate all the videos, keep up the awesome work!

[@yankeebill9596]

Great video, you made it look pretty easy and fairly smooth! The "HD" is well worth it! Now if I only had a lift.

[@brianbarnard690]

Great work. Just did this on '05. Lotta heat to get the rust to break. Thank you. This gave me confidence to get the job done.

[@wesleybrabant3595]

Always loved your style Eric. The jobs done right the first,every time.

[@j.dupontsmith353]

Good video. Very helpful. Most people don't have lifts so you have to think jack stands when explaining procedures. I'm a little baffled by the lapses in the sound track. I find that this often happens in KZbin videos so its not just you. Thanks again JDS

[@fonzo2525]

Quick Tip...if you don't know,wiggle it,if you hear something snap,stop wiggling...LOL,so true through,good job on struts too,fast and efficient work,great video.

[@ethiopiannewendeavor8867]

Could you put in the link the brand and model number of the little impact? Thanks

[@onthebrink8211]

I noticed the change in the quality of the video instantly. The clarity is insane.

[@SouthMainAuto]

OnTheBrink Oh ok good to know. I will be doing some different resolutions on the next few vids to find a happy medium.

[@thomasclick9197]

Thank you Eric and South Main Auto channel. This video got me through the horrific fix of my daughters Taurus.

[@krista8591]

You are the coolest dude on KZbin, you are the king of auto mechanics you make it look so easy because you're really that good. thanks for the video , another good job.

[@hollowheresy]

Thanks for posting this. I've never replaced struts before and now think that I can do it without having to call a mechanic.

[@seanjnl1]

Tried to replace the rear struts on my gf 2000 Taurus. First bolt I tried to remove snapped off. Put the tire back on and drove it to the suspension shop.

[@garyholt8090]

Fat Gary I love it! I hate reinventing the wheel! Nice to know what you're getting into before you start. Thanks Again!!!

[@MrGeezer101]

Just did my 02 Taurus rear struts today. This was a southern car, so not too much rust. Just PB Blaster and impact in and out a few times and the pinch bolt came right out. The sway bar links weren't too bad. I used a large pry bar. Thanks for the tips BT

[@kenlowe8659]

Great video. Enjoy all your videos. Here in the Michigan rust belt we feel your pain. I need to replace the struts and wheel bearings on my mother-laws 05 Taurus. Thanks for the insight. I’ve done the wifes Malibu. The Taurus shouldn’t be to bad pending on rust. Thanks again

[@mikeberry5534]

Eric, Great video.Thanks so much. One of the best how-to's I've seen on you tube. The HD is awesome .My knuckles thank you too.

[@richardc.childress1323]

checking out this video because just bought a 1999 taurus , noticed a slight lowness, and hard ride? after checking out the car 146000 miles the struts apparently are factory originals. purchased quick struts front and back along with both front hubs! Thanks for the updated 1080 HD great pictures!!

[@The.Fatman]

I am so glad i live in florida. No salt no snow and no rust.

[@ozarkmtn1]

Wow I notice the Taurus is from my home town, Again Mr. "O" always a pleasure watching your videos sometimes it's better than the same reruns on television . have a great weekend later.

[@njdevfan20]

I like the hd. You weren't kidding about the rust. Rust-o-vision.

[@SouthMainAuto]

asdfjkdjsalkfj We never joke about rust lol

[@kevinlewis8572]

That 1080hp is sharp! Wish I watch the video before I started this job, I snap the bolt taking it out of the knuckle. Oh well off to Ford for replacement bolts. Keep up the good work!

[@Hawk1966]

Eric's pleased with 3,000 subscribers. Could you imagine telling him then in just a few years he's going to have 554,000 subscribers? I think he'd call you nuts, you were pulling his leg.

[@johncoccia607]

The HD and step by step guide is very helpful. I now have a good idea on what to do Ty 😊

[@keith011764]

Heating is one thing, cutting another. I would NEVER let torch sparks fly near a Taurus fuel tank/vapor lines, which are notorious for developing leaks. As a 25 year Ford tech, I know it pays to "get 'em in and get 'em out" quickly, but sometimes you have to sacrifice speed for the safety of yourself and those around you.

[@FrumpyFriend39]

I wish everyone would use 60 fps, Eric.. Beautiful quality

[@rigel1974]

Those sway bar links do suck. I got links from moog that had just one long bolt and a hex sleeve. Made the install of them much easier. Thanks for the video. It helped when I did the rear struts on my '98 taurus. XD

[@juggalosamarai7819]

pro tip from someone who did the stereo and foam insulated this, you dont need to take out the bottom you can just pull the 4 bolts flip the top down and its slides out far as the back seat concerned

[@satamanschmidt3428]

On the subject of the mini impacting ratchet. I import them directly from AirPro in Taiwan. If you wait until June when my next shipment from AirPro comes in I'll be selling these on EBay but I only ordered 10 of them so first come first served. Search on the words AirPro Impacting Air Ratchet. Apparently you should use a Harbor Freight swivel with it since the expensive Milton one blew up.

[@SteveRobReviews]

Hi Denis, Fantastic ratchet- what price will you be listing them for.

[@satamanschmidt3428]

Steve Rob$110.00. If you just can't wait K&E Tool and SP tools of Japan both sell this style of air ratchet. They will set you back at least $175 however. Amazon has both. The SP you probably could get from a tool truck but there they are going to go for way over $200.

[@michaelherbert8213]

I need that air ratchet. Give us the heads up when you put them on eBay, I would even pay you now to make sure I get one. Lol.

[@shadowdog500]

I am interested in one of those air ratchets and would be willing to pre order to lock in the deal. What is your ebay seller name? I'll make you a favorite. Thanks, Chris

[@satamanschmidt3428]

Michael Herbert My EBay seller name is schmidtdn. I'll list this as AirPro (Part Number goes here) Impacting Ratchet. Just look for that in June.

[@andrewoliver9686]

Taking care of a car is somewhat simple but to each its own. But this is a great video for the diy's!!

[@kenman1717]

this is very helpful for me. I've never actually changed a set of these. I've had to remove and fix those broken bolts that hold the strut to the knuckle for someone else doing the job, but that was it, oh and I've done the links before. your way was definitely easier than the way I did it. I was on a drive on hoist, using pry bars. at least now I know what to expect for the rest of the job..

[@SouthMainAuto]

kenman1717 Oh cool glad it helps :)

[@kenman1717]

South Main Auto Repair the odd thing, one of the guys I work with has done a few sets of these in the 3 years I've been at this shop, and I don't recall him removing the back seat, but that doesn't mean he didn't I wasn't watching like a hawk,lol. he must have, doesn't look like there is another way, without messing up the interior.

[@SouthMainAuto]

kenman1717 Yeah it is the only way I know...

[@kenman1717]

South Main Auto Repair my memory is probably just bad in my old age. lol.

[@Werewolfmage]

I agree about moog going into the toilet. i had a moog bearing and it lasted 8k miles. Misc moog parts and they didnt last long. 15-20 years ago moog was the best the parts outlasted my nissan

[@djjjamz]

Another great video Eric. 1080p looks great

[@SouthMainAuto]

Jimmy G Thanks Jimmy

[@zubberification]

Another great in depth repair video.

[@SouthMainAuto]

TookErrrJerbs In a JEEP Hat none the less

[@zubberification]

South Main Auto Repair Yep. Funny enough I wear a ratty looking Ridgeline camo hat at work too.

[@SouthMainAuto]

LOL

[@alanclarke1114]

3000 subs 🤣, few more now Eric. Like the work you do, smart guy, nice family business.

[@ice44567]

Good stuff. nice to see an independent that does the job right.

[@lindanelson7548]

Really enjoyed your video. Thought you did a super job and the HD looks better than fine. Thanks.

[@iansautorepair9516]

Hey Eric I watched your video on the Subaru head gasket and wouldn't you know the very next day I had an 01 Forrester with a blown head. Seeing as how I've never done a head on a Subaru, the video really came in handy. Thanks for the videos and keep them coming.

[@SouthMainAuto]

Ian's Auto Repair Pitstop Lol cool, got ya all freshened up for it :)

[@monomille1]

Your video is more clear and smooth but the biggest difference anyone can make in repair videos is improved lighting. In close quarters the camera is just not as good as the eye in dealing with low light and shadows. If you could somehow attach an LED work light to your tripod or camera it could make a real big difference. I'm surprised that repair video presenters haven't done much along this line since there are so many times that the item of interest is located in a dark and shadowy place. Recent cameras have improved low light performance but you can't capture light that just isn't there. Sometime when you're not too rushed try experimenting with adding light to see how it helps. Thanks for another interesting video.

[@SouthMainAuto]

monomille1 Yeah I'll have to mess with it. I am more of a mechanic than a producer :)

[@TheTexasCoder]

Mopar or No Car, wearing that hat like a BOSS! Great video man! The quality is great, the trick is always getting enough light in the shot. Thanks for posting and sharing, have a great week! Your buddy never posted where to get that mini ratchet, that thing is a beast!

[@SouthMainAuto]

TheTexasCoder Scroll to SATAMAN Schmidt 's comment

[@toyotatechMDT]

The quality is great but it was fine before, do whichever is easier for you. We don't want you loosing interest in doing the videos if it becomes even more time consuming. Love your channel Eric, content is great. Nice little impact ratchet, you'll have to let us know if it lasts.

[@SouthMainAuto]

Toyota Tech Oh ok thanks and I'll let you know how the impact holds up. It is getting a lot of use trust me.

[@tomd5010]

The highly technical automotive engineering name for the plastic “Christmas trees” retainers is “push pins”. The removal tool has a highly specialized name, it is called a “push pin removal tool”.

[@chaeden]

Hello Eric. Thanks for the video. I have not been able to find the knuckle pinch bolts you spoke about to replace the ones holding the bottom of the strut.

[@brianwalker1678]

And run some fine grit sandpaper around the lower strut mount hole then put some grease in there, the strut goes in all by itself, no tapping with the hammer needed :~)

[@johncoccia607]

Great suj

[@johncoccia607]

Great suggestions 🤔 Ty

[@billp3914]

Thank you I want you to know You are a champ You save me money Time And headaches

[@jwm901376]

Love that mini air ratchet, Love all your videos! Your awesome

[@derekvermette3875]

Keep doing the HD looks smoother and better quality. :) Keep up the great work.

[@SouthMainAuto]

Derek Vermette Will do Thanks :)

[@ttoadd]

the 1080p 60fps looks awesome, keep em comin!

[@SouthMainAuto]

Devon Ehler Thanks :)

[@crcdesign9886]

Thanks for the 2 tips....I usually cut the sway bar links with a cutoff wheel but that was much quicker. Also I usually take the 18mm nut off the control arm and the 21 or 22mm nut off the torque rod...then I still have to beat it with a hammer. Next time I'll remember to just use the air hammer!

[@SouthMainAuto]

Mobile AutoMD Only if right before you use it you say _"say hello to my little friend"_ in your best Al Pacino voice

[@crcdesign9886]

Lmao

[@crcdesign9886]

The problem with being an on site repair shop Is although I have all the right tools sometimes it's just easier to grab whatever's easiest to get at in the van. I try and keep everything accessible but sometimes I'm too lazy to fire up the air compressor or go back to the truck and get the torch out...

[@SouthMainAuto]

You need to get a gofer... you know go fer this and go fer that

[@crcdesign9886]

Lol. I had one but got very impatient waiting on him to retrieve.

[@alanroberts5366]

I always opt for better grades of video, (and audio also), the quality of this video is very good. It just doesn't get any better. Same as blueRay.

[@odysseushionis4819]

720p60 is awesome nice job Eric #1

[@tomd5010]

Glad to see you using Fluid Film Eric. It is great stuff. Like the old lady says in the hot sauce commercial, I put that sh*t on everything.

[@JeffHazardous]

It is always a good day when you get easy jobs like this. I am really liking the looks of that air ratchet, need to get myself one. Video looks great, however, I'm not sure if 60fps is worth it because it doesn't look like it was shot in 60fps. if that is the case, then just stick with full HD 1080p.

[@SouthMainAuto]

Jeff Dooley I'll be doing some experimenting coming up on the next few vids to find a happy medium.

[@JeffHazardous]

Sounds good, sir. As long as you make them, I'll watch and like them. I'm always refreshing my page to see if you added another video. Keep up the good work, and just wait till you hit the 100k subscriber level. You won't have time to reply back to us :p

[@SouthMainAuto]

Jeff Dooley Well I hope I can always interact ... That is the part I like :)

[@christopherbarone3602]

Great video if pinch bolt breaks I use dewalt drill bits cost a bit but cut very fast learning lots of great tips

[@SouthMainAuto]

Christopher Barone Oh yeah I think we have all learned out lesson on those bolts :)

[@odissmith9965]

Thank you, for this video. I had no idea you had to remove the seat to get to it.

[@kipblack7196]

One of the best instructional and narrated videos I'm seen. Great job. Thanks and keep them coming.

[@sledgehammer6759]

you're right , I can see what's under the back seat now in my used 1998 Taurus se . Thanks E.O.

[@Scotsborn1314]

i would suggest putting the sway bar links in the sway bar on both sides (don't tighten) before attaching to the struts. if you put the links in the bar then pull down and insert into the strut and just start the thread (don't tighten the bottom or the top) so that the links are roughly the same length, i find it easier. Once you have one side on you are fighting the bar to put the other side on. good job on the videos and I appreciate the HD but i would rather have more videos old format than fewer new format.

[@Socalnik66]

The 1080p HD looks great. You said in another video it took forever to upload your video cause of the HD. Heck, 1080 or 720, doesn't matter, just keep posting your vids, thats all that matters. What ever makes it easy for you. Either way, I really appreciate with what you do. Thanks!

[@brolutiongaming3983]

If you’re doing this at home, take the rear seat, and parcel shelf off first, it’ll make it hell of a lot easier.

[@DodgerthaRoger]

The pen... My home! South Carolina. Crescent moon with palmetto tree are on our state flag.

[@SouthMainAuto]

Roger Anthony Yeah I was way off...

[@smitty1952]

I caught that too Roger! I was yelling South Carolina!! You need to get out more Eric, you work too hard!

[@shaughnduffy1390]

Congrats on 3k subscribers!

[@SouthMainAuto]

Shaughn Duffy Thanks :)

[@AntonioClaudioMichael]

Don't see these Vintage Ford Taurus Much Even Around me in Az anymore good video Eric O @SouthMainAutoRepairLLC

[@michaelsoutherland3023]

It's been 5 years now, my Quick Struts came in a few days ago and have been Made in USA !

[@joeysogness2323xxx]

I love ur videos man I'm a mechanic also n I really enjoy watching you and your methods..

[@SouthMainAuto]

Thanks joey sogness

[@thathvacguy]

thank u brotha, u just saved me a headache, keep doing ya thang thang!!!!!

[@DJDevon3]

Video quality is excellent. Your video looks like a true 1080p instead of an upscaled 720p. So it's definitely better if that's the case. I wouldn't have noticed if you didn't say anything only because your video quality was always really good anyway and I usually watch in the little box instead of full screen. Great video. I take it they didn't want to go with some work on the brakes. They're looking a bit aged and crusty.

[@SouthMainAuto]

***** Thanks DJ, nah the brakes were only crusty on the outside :)

[@krugerblue]

One more thing - but maybe it;s jut the car guy in me talking. I never keep loose stuff, garbage, or anything else in the car. I never eat in the car also (except if I really have to). But my point is another one - regardless of season, I always wash the car thoroughly before taking it to my mechanic (Interior and exterior), or any shop for what it matters. Mutual respect. It's like going to the doctor with dirty socks or pants, no ?

[@mikechiodetti6737]

You had me at "HD." GREAT VIDEO!

[@prestonsmith9266]

Appreciate it though. I have to change the struts on my car you made it look easy.

[@therandomchannel2022]

Great video! Love the new 1080p!

[@SouthMainAuto]

Adam Lenning Thanks :)

[@jimsnider7314]

Enjoyed this video. Very insightful. Thank you!!

[@jonbennett118]

always amazed at the state of some peoples cars.

[@adve58]

awesome little air ratchet!!!! video looks great Eric!!!! keeping coming

[@CS-wk5jm]

Hey, Eric! that was a Video from back in the days havin 3000 subscribers ;) now you have already over 20.000. wow! thumbs up! 👍

[@larrycain6126]

I know it's been years but just a little fact on the bolt/screw that type is called self tapper and the other you described is called self drilling why one verses the other the tapper won't leave much metal shavings if any and the driller will leave a bunch of shavings. Just a FYI...Larry

[@bsouza1675]

HD IS AWESOME 🤩 ERIC….. THANKS

[@radiosonicfan1726]

Great video. I need new struts. Likely going to help my mechanic and disassembly the car seat for him first.

[@davesministry7789]

For the benefit of your viewers. HEATING THE LOWER MOUNT BOLT BRACKET WITH A TORCH, probably not a good idea. they might try using a propane torch which would require a longer period of heating time. There is an explosion hazard with the gas inside the strut, the warning is also on Motorcraft tag you cleaned off. Be careful folks. The broken bolt would not require a trip to the hospital.

[@chodelee1049]

I wish I had these tools omg, trying to do this by hand sucks...... ALOT.

[@vipermech]

Moog K3124 or K700541 rear link is an easy install. Its a regular style link bolt.

[@SouthMainAuto]

Jeff Wiebe Thanks

[@deedee5205]

Great HD, I see all the rust better.

[@peterchristlieb]

Great Video, I just did a 95 GL without fear.

[@jth1699]

HD video looks nice - especially on the close shots