My son and I were about to replace the front strut inserts and strut mounts on our 1991 240 wagon when we were stopped cold early in the process.

Removing the strut retainer nut appears to require Volvo special tool 5039/5406 (as per Bentley manual).

Then there's special tools 5303 and 5039/5046 and the tie rod press tool #5043.

When you've done these jobs (strut cartridge replacement) have you substituted other, more readably accessible tools, like ones you'd normally find in your toolbox?

And we're also considering replacing the ball joints while we're in there - will we be needing a special tool to press the tie rod out?

Thanks for your advice!