1. Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the proper installation, adjustment, and maintenance of your Strange Engineering S6001EM Adjustable Front Strut. Designed for specific Ford Mustang models from 1973 to 1993, this component is a critical part of your vehicle's suspension system. Adherence to these instructions will help ensure optimal performance and longevity of the product.
2. Product Overview
The Strange Engineering S6001EM is a twintube, adjustable front strut constructed from steel with a black painted finish. It is engineered to provide enhanced control and adjustability for automotive suspension applications.
Figure 1: Strange Engineering S6001EM Adjustable Front Strut. This image displays the black, steel, twintube adjustable front strut. It features a threaded shaft at one end for mounting and a robust body with a mounting bracket containing multiple holes. An adjustment knob is visible at the base, allowing for rebound damping modifications.
3. Safety Information
Always prioritize safety when working on your vehicle's suspension system. Improper installation or handling can lead to serious injury or vehicle damage.
- Professional Installation Recommended: If you are not experienced with automotive suspension work, it is highly recommended to have this product installed by a qualified professional.
- Vehicle Support: Always ensure the vehicle is securely supported on jack stands on a level surface before beginning any work. Never rely solely on a jack.
- Personal Protective Equipment: Wear appropriate safety glasses, gloves, and other protective gear.
- Component Integrity: Inspect all components for damage or defects before installation. Do not install damaged parts.
- Torque Specifications: Always adhere to manufacturer-recommended torque specifications for all fasteners.
4. Setup and Installation
The S6001EM front strut is designed for direct replacement in Ford Mustang models from 1973 to 1993. Follow these general steps for installation:
- Prepare Vehicle: Park the vehicle on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and block the rear wheels. Loosen the front wheel lug nuts.
- Lift and Support: Safely lift the front of the vehicle using a floor jack and secure it with appropriate jack stands. Remove the front wheels.
- Remove Old Strut: Carefully disconnect any brake lines or ABS sensor wires attached to the old strut. Unbolt the lower strut mount from the spindle and the upper strut mount from the chassis. Remove the old strut assembly.
- Install New Strut: Install the new Strange Engineering S6001EM strut. Secure the upper mount first, then align and attach the lower mount to the spindle. Do not fully tighten fasteners until the vehicle is at ride height.
- Reconnect Components: Reattach any brake lines or sensor wires that were disconnected.
- Final Tightening: With the vehicle's weight on the suspension (or at approximate ride height), tighten all mounting bolts to the vehicle manufacturer's specified torque values.
- Reinstall Wheels: Reinstall the front wheels and lower the vehicle.
- Alignment: A professional wheel alignment is highly recommended after any suspension component replacement to ensure proper handling and tire wear.
5. Operating and Adjustment
The S6001EM strut features an adjustment mechanism primarily for rebound damping. This allows you to fine-tune the strut's resistance to extension, influencing how quickly the wheel returns to its original position after compression.
- Adjustment Knob: Locate the adjustment knob, typically at the bottom of the strut body.
- Rebound Damping: Turning the knob will increase or decrease the rebound damping. A firmer setting (more damping) will slow down the strut's extension, which can improve stability and control, especially during cornering or over bumps. A softer setting (less damping) will allow quicker extension, potentially improving ride comfort.
- Testing Adjustments: Make small, incremental adjustments and test the vehicle's handling and ride characteristics in a safe environment. Keep a record of your settings.
- Symmetry: Ensure that both front struts are adjusted to the same setting for balanced handling.
6. Maintenance
Regular inspection and maintenance will help prolong the life and performance of your adjustable front struts.
- Visual Inspection: Periodically inspect the struts for any signs of fluid leaks, physical damage, or corrosion.
- Mounting Hardware: Check all mounting bolts and nuts for tightness. Re-torque to specifications if necessary.
- Cleanliness: Keep the strut bodies clean, especially around the shaft and seals, to prevent dirt and debris from causing wear.
- Adjustment Mechanism: Ensure the adjustment knob turns freely and functions correctly.
7. Troubleshooting
If you experience issues with your S6001EM struts, consider the following common problems and solutions:
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Unusual noises (e.g., rattling, clunking) | Loose mounting hardware, worn bushings, internal strut issue. | Check and tighten all mounting bolts. Inspect bushings for wear. If noise persists, professional inspection is recommended. |
| Poor ride quality (too harsh or too soft) | Incorrect adjustment settings. | Refer to Section 5 and adjust rebound damping settings. Test incrementally. |
| Fluid leaks from strut body | Damaged seal, internal component failure. | A leaking strut requires replacement. Contact Strange Engineering support. |
| Uneven vehicle height | Improper installation, damaged spring (if applicable), other suspension component issues. | Verify correct installation. Inspect other suspension components. Professional diagnosis may be required. |
8. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Strange Engineering |
| Brand | Strange |
| Model | Adjustable Front Strut |
| Item Model Number | S6001EM |
| Item Weight | 10.69 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 3.8 x 4.8 x 24.3 inches |
| Exterior Finish | Painted |
| Position | Front |
| Compatibility | Ford Mustang 1973-1993 |
| Adjustment Type | Rebound Damping |
9. Warranty and Support
For information regarding product warranty, technical assistance, or replacement parts, please contact Strange Engineering directly through their official website or customer service channels. Ensure you have your product model number (S6001EM) and purchase details available when contacting support.