For all interested, the Focus strut mounts come with ball thrust bearings, and even though they are designed to work with them, I tried to avoid extra machine work to keep the overall price low. (For my car I will do the extra work
). So, a roller thrust bearing, 45x60,3mm is added to the outside of the original thrust washer (washer will function as spring centering only). In my case I made new washers, because one was broken, but this is not necessary. I used aluminium, but next week will turn them out of ABS or acrylic, there are many plastic choices for better wear resistance. 2.5"O-ring keeps dirt away. Additional cost: 2 bearings with shims - $7, 2 O-rins - $4. As I mentioned before, I did not expect dramatic (if any) steering feel difference between thrust washer and bearing and that's what the result is. It feels just like original new thrust washer and new mount - slightly gummy, but I like it. If the new bearing is positioned as designed by Ford at the out-most perimeter of the mount, steering will be super sharp at a touch, but as I said, a new centering/support part must be made and ride will be a little harder. I will help everyone, who would like to do this upgrade, but I will not answer questions just to chat or to explain obvious stuff.
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