AboutDavid Scott Expertise Questions regarding the advisability of different kinds of modifications to Samurai/Sidekick/Tracker or various kinds of off-road usage. I will not attempt to do more than provide links for questions about other Suzukis such as Vitara, Grand Vitara, etc. I may or may not give generalized advice for newer models, but have no experience regarding newer models, and will not attempt to give more than the most generalized answers for questions regarding vehicles later than '93 manufacture. I will however, if possible, provide a link that will help you contact a professional in your region.
Experience I've been a professional mechanic for over thirty five years, live in the center of the Rocky Mountains, and have been active in exploring the old mining/4wd roads for decades. I've specific experience with Samurai modification, because that's my personal vehicle.
Education/Credentials Thirty five years of advanced, intensive classes for experienced professionals only. Manufacturer seminars and training classes averaging four to six weeks per year. I'm now a professional heavy duty fleet mechanic, and no longer deal with issues such as MIL (check engine) lights
Expert: David Scott Date: 7/4/2008 Subject: Suzuki Esteem
Question I have never changed out strut assembly on my 1999 Esteem 1.6l before. Is there a trick or a web site that show steps on how to?
Thank you
Answer I've never as much as ridden in an esteem, and only have knowledge about Samurai and Sidekick/Tracker. In my experience, it's necessary to have a strut spring compressor to change strut parts. CAUTION!!! TRYING TO SHORTCUT THIS KIND OF THING CAN BE FATAL!!! DON'T DO THIS WITHOUT HAVING READ A SHOP MANUAL FIRST, AND MAKE CERTAIN YOU HAVE THE CORRECT TOOLS! Yeah, I know, but when I was in my apprenticeship, a guy next to me didn't read the manual, and the spring broke his neck when it got loose.
scotty
