Lower strut cam bolt?

1988 CHEVROLET CAVALIER
160,000 MILES • 2.0L • 4 CYL • 2WD • MANUAL
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TJMOWBRAY
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I just replaced both struts and on passenger side previous owner had a repair done and the lower strut cam bolt was replaced with a smaller bolt and lock washers. I can not find a bolt like is in the others. on rockauto they have camber alignment bolts but they don't look like the original it says they will fit my car any info.
Aug 18, 2025 at 8:48 PM
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STRAILER
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Yep, these are specialty bolts, I would go to a pick your part yard to find one or try ebay. If the bolts on rock auto don't look correct I would nut but them.
Aug 19, 2025 at 8:16 AM
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STEVE W.
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That vehicle comes without that adjustment available so you use the camber bolt kit. Your description sounds like they just used a smaller bolt to allow some adjustment. That isn't as secure because it provides no alignment in the bolts position and you only have the compression friction holding the parts in place. It also means it likely will need the camber bolts in order to adjust for whatever the earlier repair caused. If it were mine I would buy two of the camber kit bolts and replace the lower bolts with them, then take it in for an alignment check.
Aug 19, 2025 at 8:18 AM
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TJMOWBRAY
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Thanks Steve.
Aug 19, 2025 at 2:24 PM
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STEVE W.
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I make it a habit to install camber bolts on anything that gets new struts and mounts these days, been caught needing them due to wear and hidden damage as well as questionable manufacturing of replacement parts. With a factory fresh car that has never seen potholes, curbs, or train tracks having a non-adjustable suspension is okay. However, once it's been on the road and actually used, things can get interesting, and now it needs some adjustment so you don't get odd handling or tire wear.
Aug 19, 2025 at 4:55 PM
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TJMOWBRAY
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The bottom hole is slotted this is the hole the camber bolts go in right?
Aug 21, 2025 at 8:30 PM
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STEVE W.
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Yes, There should be a couple of large "washers" with them that go over the slots and allow the bolts to work.
Aug 21, 2025 at 10:26 PM
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TJMOWBRAY
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Thanks Steve
Aug 23, 2025 at 7:55 AM
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STEVE W.
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You are welcome.
Aug 23, 2025 at 8:13 AM