Overhaul
Strut and Spring AssemblyStrut and Spring Assembly:
Disassembly and Assembly
WARNING: Do not apply heat or flame to the shock absorber or strut tube. The shock absorber and strut tube are gas pressurized and could explode if heated. Failure to follow this instruction may result in serious personal injury.
WARNING: Keep all body parts clear of shock absorbers or strut rods. Shock absorbers or struts can extend unassisted. Failure to follow this instruction may result in serious personal injury.
CAUTION: Suspension fasteners are critical parts because they affect performance of vital components and systems and their failure may result in major service expense. 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.
1. Remove the strut and spring assembly.
2. WARNING: Do not attempt to disassemble the shock absorber and spring assembly without using a spring compressor. Assemblies are under extreme load. Failure to follow this instruction may result in serious personal injury.
Using a suitable spring compressor, slightly compress the spring to remove initial tension. While holding the strut rod, loosen the nut. Continue to compress the spring until tension is relieved.
3. While holding the strut rod, remove and discard the strut rod nut.
^ To install, tighten to 80 Nm (59 lb-ft).
4. Inspect the upper strut mount and seat-bearing assembly. The spring insulator should not be cracked, torn or distorted. The strut bearing should turn freely without grinding. Install a new strut and spring assembly mount, if necessary.
^ To install, tighten to 80 Nm (59 lb-ft).
5. Decompress and remove the spring. Remove the dust boot and jounce bumper.
^ To maintain wheel camber:
- position the notch and arrow on the upper strut mount outboard opposite the locator tab on the strut.
^ To adjust camber +0.5 degrees:
- position the notch and arrow on the upper strut mount inboard aligned with the locator tab on the strut.
6. CAUTION: Do not overtighten the strut rod nut. Damage to the nut or strut rod may occur.
NOTE: Make sure the spring is correctly seated in both spring seats.
To assemble, reverse the disassembly procedure.