Replacing front struts

Im replacing the shocks on my 2000 prerunner,the front appear to be struts,questiono I replace them like regular struts meaning I need a spring compressor,or can I unbolt the the top of the strut rod and the lower part from the lower controlarm and slide the cartridge out?

Thanx in advance,Tully

 

Holy smokes you got a lot to learn....do a search.

Short answer (suppose I will be the enabler):

1) Buy new SHOCKS
2) Remove coilovers from truck....three 14mm nuts on top (do not touch middle nut) and one bolt on bottom connecting to lower control arm.
3) Take your coilovers and new shocks to spring shop and have them swap them, shouldn't be more than $40
4)Reinstall
5)Alignment

 

The struts are preloaded so you need to rent a spring compressor. You can rent one for free from autozone with a $50 deposit. I recommned having a air compressor and impact wrench to run the compressor. Make sure your spray oil on the compressor as you use it. Mark the spring with paint so you keep the orientation the same when you put in on the truck with the new strut.

 

Never mind,crawled under her and realized they're basically just struts,so I'll get a spring compressor tomorow

 

Also you should read the factory service manual. It explains exactly how to remove and reinstall the struts with the proper torque values. You can download the manaul online for free if you search.