Ok to drive with only 2 of 3 strut nuts?

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Care, Maintenance & Troubleshooting' started by joeynickels, Feb 19, 2022.

  1. joeynickels

    joeynickels Junior Member

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    While installing a Cusco STB today, one of the studs on the driver's side strut sheared off. Actually, it's the stud on the lift kit that was previously installed on the strut. Weirdly, it came off before any torquing. Gonna get it replaced, in the meantime, am I gonna be ok to drive with only 2 of 3 mounting points tightened down?

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    #1 joeynickels, Feb 19, 2022
  2. Georgina Rudkus

    Georgina Rudkus Senior Member

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    Only slow and a short distance would be OK.
     
    #2 Georgina Rudkus, Feb 19, 2022
  3. xliderider

    xliderider Senior Member

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    Similar to what I dealt with when replacing the spark plugs on my V6 Camry.

    One of the strut mounting bolts sheared off when I was torqueing the nut down (using a torque wrench) when reinstalling the windshield wiper cowling, which is bolted under two of the strut tower nuts.

    Lucky for me, I found that they sell just the strut mount top plate that has the pressed in bolts, so I didn't have to replace the entire front strut assemblies on both sides. I had to also purchase a spring compressor tool for the repair. That was the scariest part of the whole repair, compressing the strut spring to remove the strut mounting top plate.

    The car was driven several times before the repair with no problem, though it was natural to try to to avoid going through turns and over bumps with higher than average speed.

    Posted via the PriusChat mobile app.
     
    #3 xliderider, Feb 19, 2022
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