My First Generation Informational Thread

[StumpDrummer]

Hey L I do you have the info on the differences in the struts for 79-85 I gotta get some coilovers or replacement struts very soon!!

[Rogue_Wulff]

Originally Posted by StumpDrummer

Hey L I do you have the info on the differences in the struts for 79-85 I gotta get some coilovers or replacement struts very soon!!

I didn't see this till just now, but here's the quick run down on the differences.
The 79/80 strut housing uses a different insert than the 81-85. The 81-85 insert can be made to work, but you must use a ~1" spacer under the cartridge.
The lower spring perch is also positioned a little lower on the 79/80 housings. This can cause tire/spring clearance issues when running different tire/wheel combos. Most of these same combos will work on the 81-85 12A without problems.
The 81-83 strut housing can be directly swapped onto a 79/80 using the brake rotors and calipers from 79/80, or you can upgrade to the 81-85 calipers by using a custom made brake hose. The 84/85 strut housings can be swapped onto a 79/80, but you will need the matching 84/85 rotors and bearings, as they have different outer wheel bearings. The 79/80 calipers can be used on the 84/85 struts/rotors, if desired.