posted 06-12-2003 12:38 PM         

The mechanic still maintains that all the parts had to be removed in order to protect the car from scratches! In fact, he said that all the same parts would have to be removed to replace the shock absorber. The manager said this is quite normal, but most customers don't get to see the work in progress. "How could I be upset, don't worry" he said.

I called Chrysler to inform them their manual should be revised so some mechanic doesn't disassemble the entire front end to replace the shock absorber or upper A-arm, but Chrysler completely blew me off. I hope someone from Chrysler sees the pictures. I have about 20 pictures in all.

Isn't it interesting how all of my parts were stored on another customer's Stratus, the floor, and the work bench? Did you notice the array of nuts, bolts, and tools on the lift? The mechanic had parts stashed away all over the place, and I doubt every nut, bolt, washer, or shim was replaced. I won't know unless I have a problem or disassemble the front end sometime in the future.