ZX2 Strut Installation and Upper Spring Seat Modificatio

[mx32rx8]

I have a 93 MX-3 GS w/ABS. I'm looking at getting the M-18000-Z2 ZX2 Struts and ZX2 upper thrust bearing. I'd stick with my stock springs. Instead of modifying the MX-3 upper spring seat, could the ZX2 upper spring seat be used instead? This seems like it could be a simpler solution, than dremeling.<BR>Also, do the rear struts fit perfectly into place? Are the stopper seat or rear mounting block keyed the same as the front?<P>Thanks.

[Mradio]

you don't have to do any mods for the rear, don't even need a spring compressor to put them back on.<BR>That sounds like a good idea, if you have access to zx2 parts, than definately try it out.

[mx32rx8]

I was hoping someone knew if the ZX2 upper spring seat would fit on the MX-3. Has anyone tried this or have knowledge of the parts and know it will or won't work? I didn't really want to be the first, but I'll look into it if no one knows. I don't even know how much they cost yet.<BR>Good to know the rears need no mods other than the ABS sensor.<BR>Thanks.

[tk1138]

Sounds like it should work, If the coil O.D. is the same.<BR>You might try protege forums, I think more protege owners have done this. <P>Good Luck.

[samiautomatic]

Yes, the upper spring seats will fit from a protege/escort. I used them when I transfered all my parts from my wrecked escort to my mx3. <P>-Sam<BR>92 gs

[samiautomatic]

Ok, I have been reading more about what this modification is all about. I had the the second gen escort (94) not the zx2. My upper strut mounts still have the flat spot. I just bought regular plastic bearings and dremeled out the inner part of it to fit over the larger strut piston. Is grinding a flat on the new metal bearing out of the question? <P>sorry for the confusion,<BR>-Sam

[mx32rx8]

I'm able to grind the MX-3 uppser strut mount to fit. However; if the ZX2 strut mount fits it would save a lot of time and work. I called a Ford dealer and was told they were $19 ea. This dealer usually has high prices though. <BR>The question becomes can the all ZX2 suspension parts replace the MX-3 ones. I've never looked at ZX2 suspension, so I don't know if it even mounts to the car the same way. Anyone have access to one and willing to take a look at how similar the two are? I ask because looking at the condition of my parts, at 92k miles it looks like the rubber spring seat, the bound stopper, and the mounting block are all cracked. If I have to replace them, it would seem to be easier and cheaper to just get ZX2 parts. How many of you replaced any of these items? Or did you just replace the strut and reuse everything else?