Coil Spring Strut Assembly
 

HI...

Why Am I having hard time finding a Coil Spring Strut Assembly for my 2006 volvo s40? I can find it for any model but my model. Do these really need to be purchased separately?

Thanks

I noticed that, too (for my similar V50). It wasn't a problem, since I prefer to keep the original springs - there's seldom anything wrong with 'em, they're probably higher-quality than any aftermarket springs you'll find, and you won't end up accidentally changing your ride height. They're not difficult to remove and reinstall on the new struts, but you do have to have a set of spring compressors and a bit of common sense (and/or self-preservation instinct). ;-)

So I will be ok with buying a strut and transferring everything else over?

Zippy, I would say yes. FWIW, the el cheapo spring compressors I used had no problem compressing the springs on my V50's struts (same as your S40). There are some common-sense issues to think through (like making sure the compressors are on straight, that the locking pins are engaged, and that you don't take apart the strut BEFORE the spring is fully compressed... and then that you get the spring aligned properly on the seats. All pretty simple DIY stuff.

FWIW, I would recommend replacing the strut mounts (on top), as the bearings can get wonky, and they're not very expensive, and the originals are likely to fail before you wear out the new struts.

I would also recommend watching the portion of the video I recently posted (and am in the process of re-posting, since I discovered that it uploaded as a "private" video so no one can open it... sigh). A few minutes in I show you how to use a piece of scrap metal to get your steering knuckle off the strut cylinder without a hammer, brute force or any cursing... I promise! ;-) Hopefully it'll be fixed by this evening.

Do you think the auto zone spring compressor will work to compress the spring so I can change out the strut and the strut mount?
A video on this would be very very helpful ...

Thanks

here is what I watched

That's pretty much how it's done. There are some differences (how the strut is bolted to the knuckle being the biggest). And he didn't replace the strut mount, which can be a mistake. I'm not familiar with the Autozone compressor, but since our cars are a lot lighter than a whole lot of other vehicles out there, I can't imagine that their compressor wouldn't work just fine.

They're a little different from mine, which have pins that are designed to "capture" the coil so that (I suppose) it won't slip off.. seems unlikely once there's any tension anyway. I suppose it might also keep the compressor parts from becoming projectiles if the compressor broke... but I can't imagine that happening, particularly with the relatively wimpy springs on our Volvos.