| datto210 |
Last weekend I replaced the front pads on my 2003 SE (they weren't really worn, just squeeked - the wife hated it). But anyway when I had the wheels off I noticed the strut/shock dust covers were torn to shreds on both sides. Looks like they just dried up and cracked apart from normal use.
Anyone else seen this problem? I can image it won't be cheap to replace them and warranty ran out not long ago. You probably have to pretty much drop the front end to replace them. Not something I'd wanna do myself anyway.
Any easy fixes or other ideas? Thanks !
Michael
oh here's a pic:
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| Gonzo |
| Something that would be replaced when struts are replaced. |
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| datto210 |
Well yeah but as I understand it these protect the struts from damage. Debris scratches the piston which then damages the seal, destroying the strut. I would guess struts should last around 100k or more, but with broken dust covers they may fail prematurely. That's what I'm hoping to avoid.
And I'm wondering why they broke in the first place. Cheap materials or bad design?? |
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| Eric L. |
| You'll find cracked strut dust boots on almost any vehicle with some miles on it. Yeah its usually a part that is replaced with the strut. Maybe you can duct tape it up for now? |
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| njjoe |
datto210-
That stinks.
J.C.Whitney sells the boots for $3.99 each. It just might be possible to install a set without removing the strut. It would require two boots per side. You cut each boot lengthwise and fit one around the strut. Then take the second boot and fit it over the first boot, with the open side 180 degrees from open side of the first boot. Secure both ends with a perfect circle clamp. It might just do the trick. You really don't care how it looks because you can't see it. You just need to know that it works.
It's a crazy idea, but it just might be worth $20 to see if it works.
-njjoe |
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| maxfan |
| I wouldn't worry about that. My '97Max boots look just like that many years ago. My nephew still drives it today on the same struts/boots. If it bothers you too much, then just replace the whole front struts. I MOD my '04Max with an pair of aftermarket ($54each+$140labor+$69alignment). That tighten up the front for a better ride. |
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| datto210 |
Thanks for the suggestions guys. Most likely I'll just leave them like they are and deal with it when the struts die. I'm still curious about if all the Murano's have this problem or not. My car only has about 40000 miles or so on it. Seems a bit early for them both to be shredded.
Michael |
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