I've seen video's where they complete disassemble the rotor/brake assembly, and also where the just remove the 2 bolts from the strut. When doing it this way, how would you support the weight of the rotor/brake assembly?

 

Anything that will carry the weight...hydraulic jack or jack stand or substantial blocks of wood or.... A hydraulic jack is best so you can easily align the holes to replace those two bolts.

 

Thanks.

 

Can anyone share their thoughts about what brand of strut they like best for first gen cx9?

 

It is not so much of "like best" because not many install one brand drive for a short while and change to another and compare them. My first choice is always KYB for myself and my customers, but Monroe is a close second. The best overall aftermarket brands are :
KYB, MONROE, Bilstein