Suspension Spring ( Coil / Leaf ): Service and Repair

Fig. 8 Placing Strut Alignment Mark:

Fig. 9 Disconnecting Brake Line From Strut:

Fig. 10 Spring Compressor Installation:

Fig. 11 Strut Disassembled:

1. Raise and properly support front of vehicle.
2. Remove rubber cap from strut mounting block. If equipped with Programmed Ride Control, disconnect control module connector.
3. Place an alignment mark between the inside of the strut mounting block and the chassis strut tower, Fig. 8.
4. If equipped with Programmed Ride Control, remove control module.
5. If equipped with anti-lock brake system, remove system harness and bracket.
6. On all models, remove brake caliper, the U-clip from brake line hose, then slide from strut bracket, Fig. 9.
7. Remove steering knuckle to strut attaching bolts.
8. Remove vane airflow meter assembly, then the ignition coil bracket from strut tower.
9. Remove strut mounting bolts from tower, then the strut assembly from vehicle.
10. Place strut assembly in a vise.
11. Loosen, but do not remove shock absorber nut, Fig. 10.
12. Remove strut assembly from vise, then compress coil spring, using a spring compressor or tool No. D85P-7178-A.
13. Remove shock absorber nut, gradually releasing spring tension.
14. If equipped with Programmed Ride Control, remove control module bracket.
15. On all models, remove strut mounting block, upper rubber spring seat, dust boot, bump stopper, then coil spring from strut, Fig. 11.
16. Reverse procedure to assemble, then install. When installing the strut mounting block, ensure that the notch on the mounting block is 180 degrees from the steering knuckle mounting bracket on the strut. Tightening to specifications.