I posted a topic yesterday about a nasty noise coming from the front N/S wheel in relation to speed, and after finding nothing apparently wrong with brakes/wheel bearing etc. I've noticed the top mounting plate of the suspension strut that is visible under the bonnet is at a funny angle.

Here's the O/S which looks fine:

http://img214.imageshack.us/i/img0587f.jpg/

And here's the N/S which looks pretty rogered (plate is far from parrallel!):

http://img408.imageshack.us/i/img0583vn.jpg/

I have noticed a knocking from the front for a while but thought it was the arb bushes so i assume this is the culprit, with the strut at this angle?!

What's involved in replacing the bush? In haynes there is a guide to remove the entire strut - is it necessary to do this, or can the bush be fitted whilst the spring is compressed and the strut is still in situ? Anyone able to post a quick guide?!

Are these the corect bushes?

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/SKODA-RANGE-FRONT-SUSPENSION-STRUT-MOUNT-BEARING-BUSH-/170372498860?pt=UK_CarsParts_Vehicles_CarParts_SM&hash=item27aafe05ac

Also, what tools would be required? I suppose I'm trying to weigh up whether it's worth buying any special tools and having them to keep, or paying a specialist to do it and avoid any complications lol.

Any help would be appreciated!! :p

Cheers

Dan

Yeah its complete strut off, no special tools required apart from big hammer to seperate shocker from hub and a big bar to bar on bottom arm to pull it down,

unless your handy with a spanner id get somebody to do it,

That looks like right bush,

You don't have a broken spring by any chance do you cos that would cause the strut top mount to sit funny like that

+1

My guess would be a broken spring.

But why guess - take the wheel off and have a good look.

I wouldn't say it was a spring, I've seen 2 broken springs and the top plate has dropped flush with the inner wing bit both times. Were the wheels straight ahead when you took the photos? having the wheels of centre or being parked on an unlevel surface will make them sit at an angle.

It's not a hard job, as mentioned already hardest bit is pulling the damper out of the hub. If you are going to replace, stick with VAG bits and replace the top mount bearing aswell while you are there.