Yesterday I attempted to replace my struts. Had a *************** of a time because my air compressor couldn't keep up with the impact wrench, so I wound up compressing the springs with the coil compressor tool and a breaker bar. It took all afternoon but finally got the left front replaced before it was dark and it was time to stop for the night.

 

This morning I drove the car an immediately realized something was wrong. Got it to the shop, and he called and said that I managed to pop the axle part way out of the transmission, though the strut looked good.

 

So how much damage did I likely cause? Is there any way to know? I drove about 3 miles to the shop, never more than 30 mph. The vibration caused by the messed up axle was worse under acceleration and turns to the right, but went away when turning to the left.

 

I'm waiting for a call from the shop, and going stir crazy while I wait.

What kind of car??

This sounds similar to a thread a few days ago with a lifted legacy wagon, or something. He kept popping the axle out of the transmission. I don't know what your car is... but try putting it back in and see if it's fine.

Whoops, sorry, meant to mention that it's an '02 Outback 2.5L

 

The shop just called back and said they replaced the axle and everything seems fine. The CV boot was leaking, and it's possible that I cut it when I was getting the old strut out.

 

I'm very relieved now. It's an expensive day, but I didn't think they were going to work on it until later, and I was worried it was going to be far, far more expensive than it turned out.