The Car Care Clinic with the Dr John

93 Ford Taurus - Adding McPherson struts

Sarah from Peterborough

Question

I have a ‘93 Ford Taurus SHO. In order to put new front McPherson struts on do my calipers need to be taken off? Also, does it have anything to do with my brakes??

Answer

Sarah, On most vehicles the brake hose to the brake caliper is supported by a bracket that bolts to the strut/shock assembly. Often, but not always, to remove the strut requires moving the suspension in a manner that will put a damaging strain on the brake hose unless the brake caliper is removed from the assembly. It’s not really a big deal, it’s just part of how the job is done. Normally one uses a wire coat hanger to create a hook each end to help suspend the caliper and take the strain off that brake flex hose.

Good Luck!
Dr. John