2008 Dodge Caliber-Strut replacement and problems.
I am replacing the front struts of my 2008 Caliber. I'm using the KYB struts, but I'm running into an issue of finding the dust cover/bumper and bellow. I bought the KYB cover but it doesn't fit right over the strut rod and won't allow the strut rod nut to screw back on. O'Reilly Auto Parts wasn't sure why it wouldn't fit, and ordered the Monroe version to see if that fits. That one doesn't fit either. I called Dodge and they sell a strut with the cover on it, but don't sell the cover on its own. I'm wondering if anyone else has run into this problem. Also, does anyone know about the special tool used to remove the strut rod nut? I used a pair pliers to hold the rod from turning while removing it, but I don't want to do the same on the new strut rod.
Answers
This really isn't a DIY type of job!
You probably need a strut compressor. If you remove that nut without compressing the spring you can get badly hurt or killed!
I have the spring compressor. That isn't the issue.
here's a video on replacing struts on this car--maybe it'll show you something you hadn't thought of: