Just completed the TRD spring swap on my XD. No where in the TRD instructions or the DIY tech posts mention shortening the bump stops for the front struts, so I did not do this. When I finished, the front strut washer that should be flush with the strut tower is about an eighth to a quarter of an inch above the tower. I am assuming this is because the bump stop wasn't shortened. For those that have completed this mod, did you shorten the bump stops? If not are the strut washers flush with the tower?
Any help would be very much appreciated.

 

I didn't shorten the bump stops. Washers are flush.

You might have to take it apart and look at the order of all these pieces. Something looks like it's not lining up. I left one of the parts out first time I reassembled the strut. Good thing I didn't drive off like that

 

Zoltiz,
Thanks for the reply. When you did your spring swap, did you replace the stock strut nut with a lower profile nut? I just noticed that the instructions list new nuts as necessary for the install.
I took mine apart and reinstalled - confirmed everything was correct and the washer is still not flush with the tower. It looks like if I replaced the stock strut nut with a low profile nut it would be flush.

 

I didn't have new nuts in the kit, so just re-used the old nuts. Did you drive tha car after install? I think the top plate moves a bit when you turn the steering wheel. Not 100% sure, though - its been over 6 months.

 

Driving the car didn't make a difference. I tried trimming the bump stops and it did not change a thing either.
Looks like I may have to let Scion look at it this week. I have to take it in on Tuesday anyway to have my steering wheel installed (didn't want to mess with the airbag with a DIY).
On the plus side, I have done this so many times now, I can pull the assembly, mess with it and reinstall in about 15 - 20 minutes.

Thanks again.

 

Steering wheel install takes about 10 minutes if you have a torx bit for the airbag screws. I messed with it on the xD a lot trying to line it up and even more on my girl's xA - fitted a tC leather steering wheel on hers.

I wish I could be of more help, but I never took pictures of the install and I did it only once on the xD. If it was a tC, I probably would've remembered after a dozen or so installs

 

I've got torx bits, but the dealership is going to install it free - bought the steering wheel when I bought the car. Besides, it looks like I don't have a choice but to let the dealership figure out what is off in my spring swap. I am interested to see what it is since I know I did everything right - this is such a basic swap.
On another subject - did you get your Five Axxis kit from Optomize? That is my next upgrade purchase.

 

I got the kit through Ken at TRDSparks.com - been buying stuff from him for 3+ years - he has very good prices and always follows through. I think optomize only sells through dealers - you can't order it directly anyway.

Take into account that it comes unpainted, and when you'll get it painted, make sure the shop does not try to bake the paint - my front lip shrunk enough to not fit any more - I had to get another lip from Five Axis and have it repainted. Didn't cost me anything, but was a PITA.

 

Luckily I have a friend that owns a body shop, so I can get it painted for just the cost of materials. I will make sure to go easy on the bake cycle. I will have to get to know TRDSparks.com.
I can't complain about everything I've gotten from the dealership. I got the parts manager to put me in the system for wholesale pricing since I am already buying so much from them. I appreciate the tips.
Still waiting to drive past you in Conyers, want to see your car in person.

 

Okay,
I feel really stupid now. Finally talked to the right Tech at Scion and the gap between the strut tower and the securing washer that I thought was a problem is supposed to be there when the suspension is weighted. Took the time to look at a stock XD and the gap is there. The suspension was correct from the get go. At least now I can do the front suspension with my eyes closed.

 

There is always an upside to everything

 

but this may help the next DIY.

http://www.badaces.com/punch/2007_Ya...Suspension.pdf