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

[@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.

[@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.

[@wesleybrabant3595]

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

[@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.

[@Mr1279Dave]

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

[@SouthMainAuto]

***** Thanks Dave and thanks for watching

[@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.

[@MrTrailerman2]

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

[@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.

[@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 :)

[@jptrainor]

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

[@risc19]

Thanks for uploading in 60fps, it looks great.

[@SouthMainAuto]

***** Thanks

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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!

[@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]

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.

[@garyholt8090]

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

[@thomasclick9197]

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

[@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

[@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

[@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 !

[@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.

[@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!!

[@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.

[@johncoccia607]

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

[@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.

[@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.

[@ethiopiannewendeavor8867]

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

[@njdevfan20]

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

[@SouthMainAuto]

asdfjkdjsalkfj We never joke about rust lol

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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 :)

[@lindanelson7548]

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

[@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.

[@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 :)

[@alanclarke1114]

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

[@sledgehammer6759]

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

[@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.

[@AntonioClaudioMichael]

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

[@The.Fatman]

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

[@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!

[@andrewoliver9686]

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

[@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!

[@SteveRobReviews]

Well done Eric- that mini hammerhead is awesome, hope buddy lets us know the link. If you never mentioned the HD I would have never noticed any difference from your old way. I guess I'm only concentrating on what your doing. 👍

[@SteveRobReviews]

Ok Eric I found the problem with the Silverado starter. The aftermarket starter motor , good boat anchor... Well I put it on the bench and I could pull the starter drive out with just my fingers. I put in another this morning and it seems to be fine. I'm sure Dorman made these boat anchors. Good tip for the viewers buy dealer if you can but for sure check and see if you can pull out the starter drive first to prove its good. Never seen this one before and don't want to spend 4 hours ripping starters in and out again. I have to take a nap :)

[@SouthMainAuto]

Steve Rob Lol glad you found it and now thing can be back to normal at your reality show haha. PM me your mailing address BTW I owe you a TY card. You got me out of a "jam" :) Thanks!

[@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.

[@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

[@FrumpyFriend39]

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

[@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 :)

[@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 :)

[@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 :)

[@kennethdavidvannorman3676]

Awesome video. Awesome little air wrench. Tell us where you get that tough little 3/8's air impact wrench. Thanks so much for the great instructional video. It gave me the confidence to take on my own repairs!!! K.D.V.N.

[@kipblack7196]

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

[@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.

[@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

[@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! 👍

[@odissmith9965]

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

[@jwm901376]

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

[@jimsnider7314]

Enjoyed this video. Very insightful. Thank you!!

[@ice44567]

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

[@djjjamz]

Another great video Eric. 1080p looks great

[@SouthMainAuto]

Jimmy G Thanks Jimmy

[@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!

[@joeysogness2323xxx]

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

[@SouthMainAuto]

Thanks joey sogness

[@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

[@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.

[@313roth]

Dude great video...I need a ton of work on my ford Taurus 2002 I live in mass and would love to take a road trip to your shop with my son and maybe do some fixing on my car. Thanks man

[@SouthMainAuto]

Garry Roth Yell we are always there haha if ya do make sure you make an appointment way ahead of time. Usually very back logged...

[@jonbennett118]

always amazed at the state of some peoples cars.

[@islamicwaylive]

Hi Eric. Are quick struts comparable to new spring coils. What are the pros and cons?

[@jth1699]

HD video looks nice - especially on the close shots

[@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.

[@deedee5205]

Great HD, I see all the rust better.

[@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.

[@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

[@shaughnduffy1390]

Congrats on 3k subscribers!

[@SouthMainAuto]

Shaughn Duffy Thanks :)

[@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.

[@stevenfranklin793]

Like your videos, have helped me save alot of money. The h.d. is great to. Let me know where you got the air ratchet from. Thanks again and keep them coming.

[@radiosonicfan1726]

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

[@prestonsmith9266]

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

[@markbeyqnbiblical26]

Hey Erik I had an out of province inspection done for my daughters first car 98 F Taurus sedan And was advised to replace the coils but I’m watching that informative video on replacing the whole strut assembly is good So my ? Is it just more expensive and safer to do just change the whole thing out Nobody needs a spring to the face ! I know it’s double the price it’s 200$ cost just for the pair of rear coils Is their a video for that in compressing coils I’m pretty sure I already know your answer lol Thanks

[@derekvermette3875]

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

[@SouthMainAuto]

Derek Vermette Will do Thanks :)

[@keviiiboo7460]

Good video. Are the struts for both sides (front and back) of the car interchangeable? I notice that some brands online don’t say Left or Right.

[@bsouza1675]

HD IS AWESOME 🤩 ERIC….. THANKS

[@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

[@russelllaferrera892]

Excellent video! High Def looks great!

[@danwood4312]

Great job. Thank you for your video, sir.

[@billp3914]

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

[@adve58]

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

[@khoun261]

Hope you can share more info on the ratchet. My 1/4" Just broke.and need to replace it. I wouldn't mind giving that one a try. Looks pretty powerful

[@satamanschmidt3428]

ken calhoun I have a shipment (sadly a very small one) of these coming in June that I will be selling on EBay. My seller name is schmidtdn and the listing will be fixed price for $110 and will be titled "AirPro SA3144 Impacting Air Ratchet" look for it then. This model is 3/8" drive and considering the power of the tool I would not recommend getting it in 1/4" drive as I think you could break off the 1/4" drive.

[@jasongraham882]

Definitely want the model of that 1/4 drive air ratchet !!!

[@satamanschmidt3428]

Jason Graham I have a shipment (sadly a very small one) of these coming in June that I will be selling on EBay. My seller name is schmidtdn and the listing will be fixed price for $110 and will be titled "AirPro SA3144 Impacting Air Ratchet" look for it then. This model is 3/8" drive and considering the power of the tool I would not recommend getting it in 1/4" drive as I think you could break off the 1/4" drive.

[@michaelsoutherland3023]

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

[@patriotkennethburlingham7059]

First of all your new jeep hat needs to get replaced now:) And second great video getting ready to do my rear shocks on my 2000 Taurus. Third, what quick shock or other do you recommend for the money? What would you use?

[@peterchristlieb]

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

[@rileypearson2332]

thats really cool. thanks for helping me learn how to do my 2003 taurus. also i no this is an old video but cool that you have 170,000 subs ...you deserve more man thanks for everything :)