Gabriel G55772 Ultra Strut: Review & Install Guide

by Felix Dubois 51 views

Are you looking to enhance the performance and safety of your vehicle? The Gabriel G55772 Ultra Rear Strut is an excellent choice for several models, including the Chevrolet Metro, Geo Metro, Pontiac Firefly, and Suzuki Swift. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the features, benefits, installation, and maintenance of this high-quality strut, ensuring you have all the information you need to make an informed decision. Whether you're a seasoned mechanic or a DIY enthusiast, this article will provide valuable insights into how the Gabriel G55772 can improve your driving experience.

What is the Gabriel G55772 Ultra Rear Strut?

The Gabriel G55772 Ultra Rear Strut is a premium aftermarket suspension component designed to replace your vehicle's original equipment (OE) struts. Struts are a critical part of your vehicle's suspension system, responsible for providing stability, controlling body roll, and ensuring a smooth ride. The Gabriel Ultra line is known for its enhanced performance and durability, making it a popular choice for drivers seeking an upgrade over standard replacement parts.

This particular model, the G55772, is specifically designed to fit a range of vehicles, including:

  • 1998-2001 Chevrolet Metro (Non-ABS)
  • 1989-1991 Chevrolet Sprint
  • 1989-1997 Geo Metro (Non-ABS)
  • 1989-1994 Pontiac Firefly (Canada)
  • 1995-1999 Pontiac Firefly
  • 1989-2001 Suzuki Swift

It's essential to verify that this strut is compatible with your vehicle's make, model, and year before purchasing. Using the correct strut ensures optimal performance and safety. The Gabriel G55772 is sold as a single unit, so you'll need to purchase two if you're replacing both rear struts, which is generally recommended for balanced performance.

Key Features and Benefits

The Gabriel G55772 Ultra Rear Strut boasts several features that contribute to its superior performance and longevity. Understanding these features will help you appreciate the value this strut brings to your vehicle.

G-Force Technology

One of the standout features of the Gabriel Ultra line is its G-Force Technology. This technology incorporates a unique infinitely variable damping system, which allows the strut to react quickly to changing road conditions. The result is a smoother, more controlled ride, whether you're navigating city streets or cruising on the highway. G-Force Technology also helps to minimize noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH), contributing to a quieter and more comfortable driving experience.

Chrome Piston Rod

The Gabriel G55772 features a chrome piston rod, which is significantly more durable and resistant to corrosion than standard piston rods. The chrome finish provides a smooth surface for the strut's seals to glide on, reducing friction and wear. This extends the lifespan of the strut and ensures consistent performance over time. A robust piston rod is crucial for handling the stresses and impacts of daily driving, making this feature a significant advantage.

Leak-Proof Piston Seal

Another critical feature is the leak-proof piston seal. This seal is designed to prevent hydraulic fluid from leaking out of the strut, which is essential for maintaining proper damping performance. Leaks can lead to a loss of control and a bouncy, unstable ride. The high-quality seal in the Gabriel G55772 ensures that the strut maintains its integrity and continues to function effectively for an extended period. This reliability is a key factor in the overall value and longevity of the product.

OE Design

The Gabriel G55772 is designed to meet or exceed original equipment (OE) specifications. This means it's engineered to fit your vehicle perfectly and perform as well as or better than the factory-installed struts. The OE design ensures proper fitment, making installation straightforward and hassle-free. It also guarantees that the strut will integrate seamlessly with your vehicle's existing suspension system, maintaining the intended handling characteristics.

Enhanced Safety and Control

Ultimately, the key benefit of the Gabriel G55772 Ultra Rear Strut is enhanced safety and control. By providing superior damping and stability, this strut helps your vehicle maintain better contact with the road, improving handling and braking performance. This is particularly important in emergency situations, where quick and precise control can make all the difference. Upgrading to the Gabriel G55772 can give you added confidence behind the wheel and contribute to a safer driving experience for you and your passengers.

Installation Guide

Installing the Gabriel G55772 Ultra Rear Strut can be a DIY project for experienced mechanics or a task best left to professionals. Either way, understanding the process is crucial. Here’s a general guide to help you through the installation:

Tools and Materials

Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and materials. You'll typically need:

  • New Gabriel G55772 Ultra Rear Strut(s)
  • Jack and jack stands
  • Wheel chocks
  • Socket set and wrenches
  • Torque wrench
  • Penetrating oil
  • Safety glasses
  • Gloves
  • Spring compressor (if reusing original springs)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Vehicle: Park your vehicle on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and use wheel chocks to secure the front wheels. Loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheels.
  2. Raise and Secure the Vehicle: Use a jack to lift the rear of the vehicle and place it securely on jack stands. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
  3. Remove the Wheel: Remove the rear wheel to access the strut assembly.
  4. Disconnect the Brake Lines and ABS Sensor Wires (if applicable): Carefully disconnect any brake lines or ABS sensor wires that are attached to the strut assembly. Use penetrating oil to loosen any stubborn connections.
  5. Loosen the Strut Mounting Bolts: Locate the bolts that secure the strut to the vehicle's frame and the wheel hub. Use penetrating oil if necessary, and loosen these bolts. Do not remove them completely yet.
  6. Compress the Spring (if necessary): If you are reusing the original spring, you'll need to compress it using a spring compressor tool. This is a critical step for safety, as the spring is under considerable tension. Follow the instructions provided with your spring compressor carefully.
  7. Remove the Old Strut: With the spring compressed (if necessary) and the mounting bolts loosened, carefully remove the old strut assembly from the vehicle.
  8. Disassemble the Old Strut (if necessary): If you are reusing the spring and other components, disassemble the old strut assembly. Take note of the order of the components for reassembly.
  9. Assemble the New Strut: If you disassembled the old strut, reassemble the new strut using the original spring and other components. Ensure that all components are properly aligned and secured.
  10. Install the New Strut: Carefully install the new Gabriel G55772 Ultra Rear Strut into the vehicle. Align the mounting holes and loosely install the mounting bolts.
  11. Torque the Mounting Bolts: Using a torque wrench, tighten the mounting bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque. This is crucial for ensuring the strut is properly secured and will perform as intended.
  12. Reconnect Brake Lines and ABS Sensor Wires: Reconnect any brake lines and ABS sensor wires that you disconnected earlier.
  13. Reinstall the Wheel: Reinstall the rear wheel and tighten the lug nuts by hand.
  14. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle to the ground and remove the jack stands.
  15. Final Tightening: Use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specified torque.
  16. Test Drive: Take the vehicle for a test drive to ensure that the new strut is functioning correctly and that there are no unusual noises or vibrations.

Professional Installation

If you're not comfortable performing this installation yourself, it's best to have it done by a qualified mechanic. A professional will have the necessary tools and expertise to install the strut correctly and safely. They can also inspect other suspension components and identify any potential issues.

Maintenance and Care

Proper maintenance and care can extend the lifespan of your Gabriel G55772 Ultra Rear Strut and ensure optimal performance. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Regular Inspections

Periodically inspect your struts for signs of wear, damage, or leaks. Look for:

  • Fluid leaks
  • Damaged or worn bushings
  • Corrosion or rust
  • Unusual noises (clunking or squeaking)
  • Excessive bouncing or swaying

If you notice any of these issues, it's essential to address them promptly. Leaks can indicate a failing seal, while damaged bushings can affect ride quality and handling. Ignoring these problems can lead to more significant issues and compromise your safety.

Driving Habits

Your driving habits can also impact the lifespan of your struts. Avoid:

  • Driving over potholes and rough roads at high speeds
  • Carrying excessive loads
  • Aggressive driving (hard braking and acceleration)

These activities can put additional stress on your suspension system and accelerate wear and tear. Smooth, controlled driving can help prolong the life of your struts and other suspension components.

Replacement Intervals

There's no set replacement interval for struts, as it depends on various factors, including driving conditions, vehicle usage, and the quality of the struts themselves. However, as a general guideline, it's recommended to replace your struts every 50,000 to 75,000 miles. If you notice a decline in ride quality, handling, or braking performance, it's a good indication that your struts may need replacing.

Alignment

Whenever you replace your struts, it's a good idea to have your vehicle's alignment checked. Misalignment can cause uneven tire wear and affect handling. Properly aligned wheels ensure that your vehicle tracks straight and that your tires wear evenly, maximizing their lifespan.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with high-quality struts like the Gabriel G55772, issues can sometimes arise. Here are some common problems and how to troubleshoot them:

Noise

Clunking or Squeaking Sounds: These noises can indicate worn bushings, loose mounting bolts, or a failing strut. Check the bushings for damage and ensure that all mounting bolts are properly tightened. If the noise persists, the strut may need to be replaced.

Poor Ride Quality

Bouncy or Unstable Ride: This is a classic sign of worn struts. If your vehicle bounces excessively after going over a bump, or if it feels unstable when cornering, your struts may be failing. Replacing the struts is usually the best solution.

Leaks

Visible Fluid Leaks: If you notice fluid leaking from the strut, it indicates a damaged seal. A leaking strut will not provide proper damping and should be replaced immediately.

Uneven Tire Wear

Cupping or Feathering: Uneven tire wear can be caused by worn struts or misalignment. If you notice cupping (scalloped wear) or feathering (wear on one side of the tread blocks), have your struts inspected and your alignment checked.

Vibration

Excessive Vibration: Worn struts can sometimes cause excessive vibration, particularly at higher speeds. If you experience significant vibration, it's essential to have your suspension system inspected.

Customer Reviews and Testimonials

Before making a purchase, it's always helpful to consider what other customers have to say. The Gabriel G55772 Ultra Rear Strut has received positive reviews for its performance, durability, and ease of installation. Many customers have reported a noticeable improvement in ride quality and handling after installing these struts.

Some common themes in customer reviews include:

  • Improved Ride Quality: Customers often mention that the Gabriel G55772 provides a smoother, more comfortable ride compared to their old struts.
  • Enhanced Handling: Many users have reported improved handling and stability, particularly when cornering or driving on uneven surfaces.
  • Easy Installation: Some customers have found the struts relatively easy to install, especially if they have some mechanical experience.
  • Durability: The chrome piston rod and high-quality seals have been praised for their durability and longevity.

While most reviews are positive, some customers have noted the importance of verifying compatibility with their vehicle's specific make and model. It's always recommended to double-check the fitment before making a purchase.

Conclusion

The Gabriel G55772 Ultra Rear Strut is a top-quality replacement part that offers significant benefits for your vehicle's performance and safety. With its G-Force Technology, chrome piston rod, and leak-proof seal, this strut is designed to provide a smooth, controlled ride and withstand the rigors of daily driving. Whether you're looking to improve your vehicle's handling, enhance ride comfort, or simply replace worn struts, the Gabriel G55772 is an excellent choice.

By understanding the features, benefits, installation process, and maintenance requirements of this strut, you can make an informed decision and ensure that your vehicle performs at its best. Remember to verify compatibility with your vehicle, follow the installation instructions carefully, and perform regular maintenance to maximize the lifespan of your Gabriel G55772 Ultra Rear Strut. With this upgrade, you can enjoy a safer, more comfortable, and more enjoyable driving experience.