Did I miss something?

[Ryanroland]

So I decided to tackle a few projects on my days off.
1. Oil change (no biggie, done it several times on this car
2. Rear diff fluid change (sounded super easy)
3. Install H&R springs over existing struts (I've done this a few times on hondas)

So first problem was with the rear differential. As I'm adding my 1.9L (per JHM website, but some say Tips only take 1.5) I only get to 1.2-1.3 maybe, and my differential starts spewing out more than a little bit. Not like a hey you've reached the limit, so let me overflow just that little extra. It was like I gave it food poisoning and it was trying to empty all of its contents. Baffled on that part

Second I'm only on my first corner of the spring install and I can't keep the strut from spinning to tighten down the top nut. New spring already on. Any suggestions? I'm pretty frustrated considering all the videos and write ups kind of skip past this step like it should be no big deal

[Lucca M]

Diff- are you sure you drained all of the old fluid? And is car level?


Strut - ive grabbed it with vise grip and was able to tighten it down

[tmorgan4]

ECS has the most unbelievably detailed install manual for H&R springs if you don't already have it in front of you.

Did you overlook the hex on the shaft of the strut? Page 22.

http://bd8ba3c866c8cbc330ab-7b26c6f3...stallation.pdf

[badger.]

So I decided to tackle a few projects on my days off.

Second I'm only on my first corner of the spring install and I can't keep the strut from spinning to tighten down the top nut. New spring already on. Any suggestions? I'm pretty frustrated considering all the videos and write ups kind of skip past this step like it should be no big deal

This write up (top search result...) goes into some decent details on that top nut issue:
http://www.audizine.com/forum/showth...=1#post6380229

[emilio]

So first problem was with the rear differential. As I'm adding my 1.9L (per JHM website, but some say Tips only take 1.5) I only get to 1.2-1.3 maybe, and my differential starts spewing out more than a little bit. Not like a hey you've reached the limit, so let me overflow just that little extra. It was like I gave it food poisoning and it was trying to empty all of its contents. Baffled on that part

that seems normal. i've changed my B7's twice, and i've never fit the required amount in. B6s might use even less.

- emilio

[Ryanroland]

Diff- are you sure you drained all of the old fluid? And is car level?

Yeah four jack stands equal height

ECS has the most unbelievably detailed install manual for H&R springs if you don't already have it in front of you.

Did you overlook the hex on the shaft of the strut? Page 22.

http://bd8ba3c866c8cbc330ab-7b26c6f3...stallation.pdf

Nice reference. Did not see that (on ecs, I saw the hex but didn't have a wrench that could get in there)

This write up (top search result...) goes into some decent details on that top nut issue:
http://www.audizine.com/forum/showth...=1#post6380229

That write up is the best one I've seen. I wonder why it's not in the DIY sticky. So it looks like a quick trip (again) to harbor freight for the open ended sockets and I'm golden.

So any idea on the fluid level? I can't exactly get my big head up there to check. And I let it drain for about 15 minutes and both plugs were out. It wasn't even dripping slightly so I assume it's out

[Ryanroland]

Fronts all done :fist pump: now before I start the back, I'd like to finish the rear diff fluid. If it's spilling out do you think it's safe to say it's full?

[Ryanroland]

I'm embarrassed to admit, most of my struggles are coming from not paying attention to the details. Fronts were a struggle because of the UCA and the hex nut on top of the strut. Now I'm struggling with the rear. It took a lot more struggle than any DIY or video showed. I removed the sub frame bolt to the rear of the strut but did not notice people were saying to loosen two bolts per side. Found the bolt I did not know to loosen and I suspect it will make the whole process way easier. Especially since it's right next to the spring and that is the place with the least amount of movement where I need the most amount of movement.

Oh well, back at it again tomorrow. I learn from one side and the second side gets way easier

[S4Bennett]

If you metered the fluid while the car is level, it will be fine.

[Ryanroland]

If you metered the fluid while the car is level, it will be fine.

Yeah I was thinking maybe if you just jack up the rear it will allow the fluid to go towards the front of the rear diff and allow for more fluid. Hopefully that is not necessary