Removal and Installation

Strut and Spring Assembly





Special Tool(s)

Removal and Installation

WARNING: All vehicles are equipped with gas-pressurized front shock absorbers which will extend unassisted. Do not apply heat or flame to the front shock absorber during removal or disassembly. Failure to follow these instructions may result in personal injury.

CAUTION: Suspension fasteners are critical parts because they affect performance of vital components and systems and their failure can result in major service expense. A new part with the same part number must be installed if installation is necessary. Do not use a new part of lesser quality or substitute design. Torque values must be used as specified during reassembly to make sure of correct retention of these parts.

NOTE: Turn the ignition switch to the UNLOCKED position.





1. Loosen the strut and spring assembly mount nuts.
^ Tighten to 25 Nm (18 ft. lbs.).

2. With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist.





3. Remove and discard the front axle wheel hub nut.
^ Tighten to 200 Nm (148 ft. lbs.).





4. Remove the tie-rod-to-wheel knuckle nut, then separate the tie-rod from the wheel knuckle.
^ To install, tighten to 115 Nm (85 ft. lbs.).

5. Remove the front brake disc.





6. Remove the bolt and the wheel speed sensor from the wheel knuckle. Position the wheel speed sensor aside.
^ To install, tighten to 14 Nm (10 ft. lbs.).





7. NOTE: Use the hex-holding feature to prevent the stud from turning while removing the nut.

Using a crow's foot wrench, remove and discard the lower arm ball joint nut.
^ To install, tighten to 115 Nm (85 ft. lbs.).





8. Using a pry bar, push the lower arm downward until the ball joint is clear of the lower arm.





9. After separating the lower ball joint from the wheel knuckle, immediately install the special tool over the ball stud before releasing the lower arm and knuckle into the rest position.
^ Leave the special tool in place during service and only remove prior to reassembly.





10. CAUTION: Do not allow the halfshaft to move outboard. Overextension of the tripod CV joint can result in separation of internal parts, causing failure of the halfshaft.

Using the special tool, press the halfshaft from the wheel bearing and hub. Support the halfshaft in a level position.
11. Remove and discard the 4 strut and spring assembly nuts.
12. Remove the wheel knuckle and the strut and spring as an assembly.





13. Remove and discard the wheel knuckle-to-strut and spring assembly nut and flagbolt.
^ To install, tighten to 175 Nm (129 ft. lbs.).

14. Separate the strut and spring assembly from the wheel knuckle.
15. To install, reverse the removal procedure.