Removal/Installation

1. Raise and support vehicle then remove tire and wheel assembly.
2. Remove stabilizer bar link at strut assembly.
3. Loosen, but do not remove, outer tie rod end nut then remove outer tie rod end using suspension component puller tool No. MB990635, or equivalent.
4. Remove speed sensor cable routing bracket from strut assembly.
5. Remove brake caliper and brake rotor as outlined in the "Disc Brakes" unit repair section. Suspend caliper from frame using suitable wire.
6. Disconnect lower strut from steering knuckle. Strut bolts have a serrated shaft for a tight fit into steering knuckle. Turn nut on bolts only, do not turn bolts.
7. Disconnect upper strut from shock tower and remove strut assembly from vehicle.
8. If damper is to be serviced, proceed as follows:
a. Position strut assembly in a vise by clamping strut by steering arm.
b. Mark strut unit, lower spring isolator, spring and upper strut mount for indexing of parts during assembly.
c. Install spring compressor tool No. C-4838, or equivalent, on coil spring and compress coil spring to release all load from upper strut mount assembly.
d. Install strut rod socket tool No. L-4558A, or equivalent, on strut shaft nut; then, using a 10 mm socket on strut shaft end, remove strut shaft nut.
e. Remove upper strut mount, jounce bumper, seat/bearing, dust shield, coil spring and lower spring mount from strut.
f. Reverse procedure to assemble, aligning marks made during disassembly.
9. Reverse procedure to install. Strut bolts have a serrated shaft; do not turn bolts in steering knuckle. Turn nut on bolts instead of turning bolts.