02 CRV EX. I am going to replace all four struts as well as the front lower ball joints. I think I have a good handle on doing it myself. All things being equal should I go with Monroe, KYB, or Gabriel struts? Should I also do the lower control arm bushings while I have it all apart? What size is the front axle nut? I have seen three different sizes while shopping for parts.

 

I was thinking of pressing the ball joints into the knuckles with one of those rented c clamp type from the auto parts store. I did see a couple of cheap presses at Harbor Freight Tools. One of them was a 20 ton and the other one was a 12 ton. Is the 12 ton press enough to do the ball joints and any other bushings that I might have to press or shoud I step it up to the 20 ton model?

 

If you aren't buying OEM shocks buy KYB.

 

^^

i run KYB's on my slammed CRV and it rides amazing.