Citroen XM Forum

It's not always possible, not all extensions can reach the subframe. I have that problem as well.

Indeed. I personally always jack on a subframe, because I'm only lifting in one place. A four-post lift is rather different. Those lifting points are very solid, even if the surrounding thinner metal is iffy.

On a four post lift, best to use the chunky rubber pads normally available.

Bit of a disaster today. Went to change the strut top and the new one I had is the wrong sodding size! The internal bore is far larger - non-Hydractive?

Getting the old one off revealed that it really is quite rusty. Checking the exact same spot on the nearside strut top revealed that this one is also quite rusty. I'm now quite nervous. Does anyone actually have any decent strut tops? I really can't live without the car being on the road at the moment. While I don't mind using my 2CV through the winter, my wife and I can't drive it at the same time!

On the plus side, got the sills painted up today after the welding session a couple of weeks ago, and pulled the rear pads out - enough meat on them for now and the pistons are moving nicely.

Hi ian..

no strut top off a larger engined car initially 2.5 engines then later cars got them. It was a runnig mod I think.

both are still hydractive.. just the strut piston was enlarged..

our resident strut top man could explain better then me xmexclusive..

you could fit the strut that matches the top to your car but im not sure if citroen forbid that misfitting.

Ah, interesting. Likely to be up for sale as it's no use to me. Seems to be a new one, not reconditioned.

Send them to Holland for a perfect rubber refurb. You won't regret it.

The fitting of a large strut to match that head is permitted.
The piston diameter is the same size on both types of strut.
Unless it is very recent the drop link will need replacing with the strut.

captainh

Read his post. He needs the car to use so cannot accept the down time.

Its about time you told us the things we actually need to know about Dutch strut head rebuilding.
Who carries out the work?
Where, what is his contact details.
Does he speak english?
Will he do mail order to the UK?.
What is his turn round time?.
Do you get your own strut heads back or someone elses?
After Matthews experience exchange strut heads can go wrong.

Please do not get me wrong about this.
Its not complaining about you or the Dutch method of rebuilding the heads.
Its just that you have told and shown us how good they are.
We just need enough information on here for people to follow through and get theirs done.

John

Point taken, I've just posted something.
Shoot me if it's incomplete, it's late!

Right. Back on topic. An update of recent work. 
 
This is what a rusty strut top looks like when removed. Now refitted as the replacement was the wrong size. I am now nervous. You can see the rubber lifting up off the rusty metal. It is at least still solid. For now.

 
A small belt sander is great for attacking bubbly bits. No rot here, but the paint was bubbling badly. I got some paint on these bits yesterday but zinc primered them during this workshop session.

 
Masked up ready for the repaired sills to be stonechipped and painted.

 
Note lack of rust on rear arches, which I painted yesterday. This is today - full of moisture!

 
I think these holes are now to blame. What a stupid idea! Bring back gutters I say.