Well I believe since you are not actually removing the struts cap that retains the spring there is no danger of it becoming unloaded and a projectile. Your removing the strut assembly just as if you bought preloaded ones and were about to install them, no danger. Once you remove the nuts holding the struts into place they pull free and away from the strut mounts just like that, all in one piece. Perhaps "You Tube" has a video on this subject.

Here is one for a cavalier, very much like our Monte's, see easy cheesy, no problems taking them out.

 

Well then I guess my question is where exactly is the strut mount bearings? I assumed they were part of the actual struts assembly. Time for some Google-ing I guess

 

Dave, that top strut mount is the strut brace, and strut bearing assembly. What you Don't want to do is removed the big bolt on the top of the strut piston. That holds the spring!

Basicly, you remove the 3 bolts on top and the 2 pins from the steering knuckle/hub assembly, and the strut comes out as one unit. You need a good sized sledge hammer to bang the pins out at the bottom of the strut. "Assemble in reverse order!" Lol

 

Ok, I wouldnt be able to get the strut mount off without fully removing the strut then. The mount just comes out then?

 

So I dont want to replace the whole strut, So i will just get the bearing mount kit. I found a write up on the how to https://montecarloforum.com/forum/mo...-mounts-42726/

 

I would just replace the whole strut. 5 bolts out, 5 bolts in. I did all 4 on Mine in the street. At least you have The Base Hobby Shop!

 

Its the money, and the struts are in really good condition... im paying $450 tomorow for paint. I might just save up and replaced both struts later down the road and lower the front an inch or two.

I have the garage at my house, and the shop up at my parents house as well. Base hobby shop guys dont know what they are doing these days.

 

In my day the base hobby shop guy only advised. Only if you asked. They are guys who retired from mechanics a long time ago. You have three good sources of info for your car, You, your Haynes manual and MCF!
As for the $$$s, when you find I self replenishing source let me know
You can do it when the funds are right. It's easy! Just make sure you have the right tools!