Strut Assembly Removal and Installation

Strut Assembly Removal and Installation

Special Tools

* CH-49375 - Wrench

* EN-45059 - Angle Meter

For equivalent regional tools, refer to Special Tools Front Suspension.

Removal Procedure

1. Remove the air inlet grille panel. Refer to Air Inlet Grille Panel Replacement Service and Repair.

2. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle Service and Repair.

3. Remove the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation Service and Repair.




4. Separate the brake hose (1) from the shock absorber.




5. Remove and DISCARD the steering knuckle nuts and bolts (1).




6. Remove the stabilizer shaft link nut (1) from the front strut.

7. Lower the vehicle.




8. Using the CH-49375 - wrench (2) and the Torx(R) (1), loosen the upper strut nut.




9. Remove the upper strut mount nut (1).

10. Remove the strut mounting plate (2).

11. Separate the front strut from the knuckle.

12. Remove the front strut assembly from the vehicle.

13. For servicing the individual strut components, refer to Strut, Strut Component, or Spring Replacement Front Suspension.

Installation Procedure




1. Lightly apply rubber lubricant to the upper strut mount, using rubber lubricant GM P/N 12345884 / Canadian P/N 5728223 to ease installation and for proper seating of mount.

2. Install the front strut assembly.





Caution: Refer to Fastener Caution Fastener Caution.

3. Install the strut mounting plate (2).

4. Install the upper strut mount nut (1).

5. Using the CH-49375 - wrench (2) and the Torx(R) (1), tighten the front suspension strut mounting nut to 65 Nm (48 lb ft).




6. Insert the front strut in the knuckle.

7. Install NEW bolts (1) and nuts to the steering knuckle and tighten the nuts a first pass to 90 Nm (66 lb ft).

Warning: Refer to Torque-to-Yield Fastener Warning Torque-to-Yield Fastener Warning.


8. Tighten the new bolts and nuts a final pass to an additional 60 - 70 degrees, using the EN-45059 - meter.




9. Install the stabilizer shaft link nut (1) and tighten to 65 Nm (48 lb ft).




10. Install the brake hose (1) to the strut.

11. Install the front tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation Service and Repair.

12. Lower the vehicle.

13. Install the air inlet grille panel. Refer to Air Inlet Grille Panel Replacement Service and Repair.