I have searched all over for a good tech article on RRE strut bars and could't find one so I decided i would create this one.
Tools needed:
-Dremel w/ cutoff wheel (optional)
-Phillips screwdriver
-Marker
-Measuring tape
-Electrical tape
-Ratchet extension
-14mm socket
-14mm wrench
Rear strut bar install
I started with the rear since there is more to do back there.
1. Remove the (2) screws holding the strut covers on both left and right side. Once those are off you will see where the struts are located.
2. Remove the black dust covers over the center of both struts.
3.Remove (1) 14mm nut on each side closest to the rear of the car.
4.Loosen the locknut on the strut bar and adjust it to the right length. Place strut bar over both nuts and push down gently till it sits flush on both sides.
5. Tighten the locknut on the strut bar.
6. Start with one side and get the bolt snug but not tight. Go to the other side and snug it as well, making sure the bar sits flush
If you dont plan on putting the dust covers or plastic trim back on then your done with the rear. IF not I'll explain how to get them to fit.
the plastic trim needs to be cut to slide over the strut bar. Make sure you know which piece is the left & right.
Click on the pic to see the measurements.
(NOTE: make sure before trimming the pieces that you cut it out on the side facing the rear of the car)
Once that is measured use your dremel and cut out the piece.
The dustboots need to be cut as well. I cut a 1in by 1in section.
.
place the dustboots and the trim back on.
Now your done with the rear bar.
This bar does work with the hatch cover.
Front strut bar install
1.Open your hood. Loosen the 14mms strut nuts closest to front of car on both sides. (Not the bigger nuts by themselves in the bay)
2. Place the strut bar over the studs. The flat part of the bar goes on the passenger side of the car.
3. If your bar seems too short measure it. DO not force it on. It should measure little over 42 inches. Thanks to JLJ for getting this info in this thread
RRE strut bar problem
4. Start with one side and get the bolt snug but not tight. Go to the other side and snug it as well, making sure the bar sits flush. Now tighten them both down and your done.
5. Your positive battery terminal may come close to this bar like mine so I wrapped a small section in electrical tape in case they do ever touch.
I also have the RRE front lower bar, but do not have that installed yet.
I suggest taking the car for a quick drive around the block and come back and make sure that the bars are still tight. If not tighten them back down. I havent gotten to test the bars fully yet but i can definitely tell turning seems more fluid. Ill edit once i test them out.
