Hey all, having some issues getting my mk2 struts apart. removed from car etc compressed spring and removed retaining nut. should the strut top and bump stop etc simply lift off? seems like it seized on there? or am I missing something? Im fitting King springs and Monroe GT gas inserts, is it worth going to an aftermarket adjustable strut top? just be a weekend road goer for the time being but id like it to handle nicely. any help would be appreciated.

Hi Mate,
 
Yes once the nut is taken off they should just slide off.  You may need to persuade it a little with a few taps from a hammer.  You could also loosen the springs to force the string tops up.
 
Unless you want to go ultra low or go racing the kings springs will work fine.
 
Cheers,
 
Matt

thanks matt. yeah tried letting the springs push it up but it still wont budge, gave it a good tap with a soft hammer and nothing. seems like its seized on the rubber boot ? ill soak it in some penetrene over night and have another go tomorrow. do you think the smcka strut tops are a worth while option?

Yeah, new struts tops bwith spherical bearings will make a massive difference to the heavy steering.   SMCKA's are for cortinas so will increase the ride height by 1" as per his website though.
 
Not sure if he has them for escorts.
 
Cheers,
 
Matt 

yeah I did notice that. makes putting lower springs in pointless really. ill have a look around @ some other options, thanks again matt. 

K-mac do them or burtons too.

Matt

An aussie guy does them too.... Geoff @ eurospeed.... In brisbane...

Finally had some success with the struts guys, they where seized in the strut tops. ended up having to cut the old shocks and press them out! thanks for all your help.

Wow,  very stubborn indeed.
 
Glad it worked out.
 
Cheers
 
Matt

Hi don't know how far you have gotten with your strut overhaul, but after having done it recently, Im in a position to point a few things out!
 
You are right in searching for new strut tops - when it comes to suspension/steering, I have found out (the hard way), it is often a case of replace it all or not at all!
 
I have fitted the spherical bearing strut tops avail on SMCKA's website and yes they do raise the height of your car by 1 inch! This is because the manufacturer (GRP4 in Ireland) originally designed them for the cortina. I guess the cost of remodelling up a similar unit for the escorts have just made our life a little harder! They are however great units and I am very happy with them. I am about to purchase -2 inch springs to get my ride height back to the -1 I was at! Otherwise you can go for the Eurospeed or K-mac options available, but they are much more expensive!
 
All the best!