How to Fit Top Mounts on Your Own

Top mounts are car suspension components that secure the struts or the shock absorber assembly of the car and prevent them from abnormal movements. If the top mounts of the car are damaged or worn out, this will result in abnormal suspension movement that can cause driving problems as well as unwanted noises. The top mounts are located above the shock absorbers or coilovers, and require periodic maintenance. If you have the right set of tools, you can fit top mounts by yourself.

To fit top mounts by yourself, you will need the following:

• New top mounts and bearings
• 22 mm or 24 mm socket wrench (depends upon car make and model)
• 18 mm wrench for undoing securing bolts
• Spring compressor
• Lug wrench
• Jack and stand

Now that you have everything you need, follow these simple steps and you will be done in no time.

1. Loosen the lug nuts and jack up the car on the stand.

2. Remove the wheel to get access to the lower bolts.

3. There will be two 18 mm bolts that secure the shock absorber/coilover to the wheel hub, undo them, and disconnect the lower portion of the shock absorber/coilover.

4. Open the hood, and locate the top mount securing bolts. These are usually of 22 mm or 24 mm.

5. Undo these screws using the wrench, now your shock absorber should come out easily.

6. If using a shock absorber and not a coil over, use a spring compressor to compress the spring, and then undo the main bolt that secures the top mounts and bearing.

7. Once undone, remove the old top mount and bearing, and install new ones in their place.

8. Tighten the securing bolt, and insert the shock absorber back into its slot into the car body.

9. First, tighten the top bolt in the hood to hold the shock absorber in place.

10. Now, tighten the lower 18 mm bolts while pulling the shock absorber towards you, this will make sure that the wheel alignment stays proper and there are no camber problems.

11. Tighten all the bolts and apply grease where necessary.

12. Put the wheel back on, and lower the car back on to the ground. Repeat for the other side.

Congratulations! You have just succeeded in fitting top mounts by yourself. Enjoy your improved ride.