ok i'm convinced i need new struts for my 1990 ES250. i'm thinking the monroe sensatrac. anyways...how difficult is it to do this myself? i think it would be a hassle since i have to compress the spring when i remove and install the strut. can i do this with simple tools?

what would it take a shop? 2.5 hours each?

 

~ 1 hr each if you are a good mechanic with experience

 

You hit it on the head. Compressing the spring is the issue and you would also need an air compressor and a special tool to hook it to. It ain´t easy. I have done it with my cousin on my RX300 and the fastest they could do it on each one was about 30 minutes if they took a stab at it., but I agree with amul, 1 hour is the norm.

 

You'll need a spring compressor.
You can usually rent the tool at Autozone or Checkers auto etc.

They actually rent the tool for free if you purchase the struts from them.

You should use an air compressor also.. Good luck.