A-1 (1981 Jetta) suspension Question

[HermTDI]

I have a friend that owns an A-1 Jetta and is in need of suspension maintenance.

After looking at parts availability I have a question conserning the front struts.

It looks like the  strut "insert" is replaceable. My question is about these inserts. What are they talking about when listing replacement inserts...with "INSIDE THREADS" and "OUTSAIDE THREADS".

Which inserts do I need...and how do I make this determination.

Thanks in advance.
Herm

[FineFrank]

Which inserts do I need...and how do I make this determination

Easy. Jack up the front of the car (unless your hands are smaller than mine) and push up the strut boot with your fingers until you can see the top of the strut housing. You'll be able to see a nut on the top; if it screws ONTO the housing, you'll need cartridges for external threads: if it screws INTO the housing, you'll need cartridges for internal threads.

[clbanman]

I just did the struts on my 86 Golf,  and found that the complete strut assembly was actually cheaper than the strut inserts.  (Monroe Sensatracs versus an aftermarket OEM replacement insert.)