Blown rear strut top

[jarm86]

Hi Guys,

Quick question, After a drive in the forrie through Kroombit tops NP on the weekend, bashing over some reasonably rough and rocky trails, when i hit the bitumen again i noticed a clunk from the rear RHS whenever i would hit a sharp bump.

Checked the strut bolts and swaybar (for the notorious clunk) but didn't really see anything. However on further inspection this afternoon, comparing both sides of the strut tops, it would appear that my top strut mount on the RHS has blown out. See PICS.

I've seen some comments around about fitting Group N strut tops to prevent further blowouts? Its an 07 forester XS, and i am pretty sure doesn't have SLS rear struts. Only mods are 1" lift blocks at AT tyres.

Can anyone give me a part number for these strut tops, and or places to source them from in Aus (anyone other than subi dealers??)

Sorry about war and peace.
Cheers

 

[havachat]

I suspect that you have SLS. The photo below is a self levelling strut


this is a KYB strut below which is a non self levelling heavy duty strut


hope this helps.

 

[jarm86]

Thanks Havachat,

I always thought the XS models came with the SLS but my rear struts definitely don't have the canister on the side of them.

Have attached a photo showing the bottom of my rear struts.

 

[NachaLuva]

Yep they're not self-levelling.

Forester Group N Rear Strut Mount - SubaruGenuineParts.com

I also did a search on ebay, found these amongst others:
https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/NEW-SUB...r_Truck_Parts_Accessories&hash=item27d9138dd4

 

[jarm86]

Thx Nach,

I could never find a proper pic of SLS so im glad to know i def don't have it.

Also if thats the right part for those strut mounts it looks as if they will have to come from the US.

Has anyone found anyone to supply these in aus (dealers i guess) or are there any other aftermarket options available?

I have found a stock replacement through repco for $70 bucks so wondering if i might have to go that way yet as the car is only just driveable as is.

Cheers.

 

[jarm86]

Hi all,

Just a follow up so maybe someone can learn from my dumb mistakes.

Ended up getting a replacement strut top through repco - Monroe branded - $85.

On disassembly I realised why I blew them out so soon after putting lift blocks in. (Just over 12 months)

When I punched the studs out of the rear strut, I assumed that the 2mm pressed plate section was just a dust cover, and hence just fitted it on top of the strut block (See Pic). however on further inspection i have realised that it actually supports the rubber in the centre of the strut mount and prevents it from breaking out when you hit your bump stops / abuse your suspension.

Needless to say the other side has now been swapped around also. Seems it has avoided damage too.

Cheers

 

[NachaLuva]

We all make silly mistakes or suffer from the mistakes of others, unfortunately its a part of life! Just glad there was no bad damage done & easily/cheaply fixed