#1879, "I wouldn't recommend that" In response to In response to 3
That washer is there for a reason, your best bet is to get some of the locking pliers and lock it onto the top of the strut (you know where the threads end) you will need to do this anyways since it has a tendency to rotate anyways. Good luck.
2003 VW GTI 1.8t.. I used to have a 95 Eclipse but well...water sucks.