I like to clean the mating surface on the strut until it's flat. I like to use a new axle nut too, but that's just me.
When you mark the alignment on the nut before disconnecting the strut, use two marks not just one. It's more accurate and it's free.
To get the old bearing assembly off, I sometimes have to beat it either like a a bongo or an egg. This is very cathartic. I like to yell obscenities while doing this.
