Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Absolutely crucial for safety.
* Wheel chocks: To prevent the car from rolling.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheels.
* Socket wrench set: With various sizes, including those for the strut nuts and bolts.
* Wrench set: May be needed for some fasteners.
* Torque wrench: To tighten bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque.
* Penetrating oil (like PB Blaster): To help loosen rusted bolts.
* Strut compressor: This is essential for compressing the strut spring. Do not attempt this without one; the spring can be very dangerous if it's not compressed properly.
* Floor jack (optional but helpful): To help support the suspension components.
* Gloves: To protect your hands.
* Shop rags or paper towels: For cleaning.
* Replacement rear struts: Make sure you get the correct struts for your specific vehicle.
Procedure (General Outline):
1. Safety First: Park the car on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the front wheels.
2. Raise and Support the Vehicle: Use the jack to lift the rear of the car, placing the jack stands securely under the rear axle or frame. Refer to your repair manual for the correct jack points.
3. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
4. Disconnect Components:
* Brake Line: Carefully disconnect the brake line from the caliper. You'll likely need a wrench to loosen a retaining clip or fitting. Be prepared for some brake fluid to spill – have rags ready.
* Shock Absorber: Locate the upper and lower mounting bolts. Often the lower mount is the most challenging to reach. Use penetrating oil if necessary and carefully remove these bolts.
* Other Connections: Some Tempos might have additional components (like sway bar links) that need to be detached. Your repair manual will detail this.
5. Compress the Spring: Using your strut compressor, carefully compress the strut spring. This is a critical step; improper compression can lead to injury. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for your specific strut compressor.
6. Remove the Old Strut: Once the spring is compressed, the old strut assembly should come out. Sometimes you might have to work it gently.
7. Install the New Strut: Install the new strut assembly in reverse order. Make sure the spring is properly compressed throughout this process.
8. Reconnect Components: Reconnect the brake line, the other components you disconnected earlier and secure the strut assembly to the car.
9. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle and remove the jack stands.
10. Tighten Everything: Tighten all bolts and nuts to the correct torque specifications found in your repair manual.
11. Install the Wheel: Install the wheel and tighten the lug nuts to the proper torque.
12. Lower the Vehicle Completely: Double-check everything is tight and secure.
13. Test Drive: Perform a short test drive to ensure proper handling and braking.
Important Considerations:
* Repair Manual: A repair manual specific to your 1991 Ford Tempo is highly recommended. It will provide detailed diagrams, torque specifications, and crucial safety information.
* Strut Type: Ensure you purchase the correct type of strut for your vehicle.
* Spring Tension: Be extremely cautious when working with the spring. Incorrect compression could lead to serious injury.
* Brake Fluid: If you spill brake fluid, clean it immediately to prevent damage to paint or other components.
If you're uncomfortable performing this repair, it's best to take your car to a qualified mechanic. Replacing struts incorrectly can significantly impact your vehicle's handling and safety.
