Strut, Suspension, Assembly: Disassembly

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CAUTION:

Do not use any type of pliers on the chrome machined surface of shock/strut rod to assist in the disassembly/assembly of shocks or struts. Use only tools designed to hold the shock/strut rod stationary when servicing shock or strut components.

NOTE:

The strut assembly must be removed from the vehicle for it to be disassembled and assembled. Refer to STRUT, SUSPENSION, ASSEMBLY, REMOVAL .

For the disassembly and assembly of the strut assembly, use strut spring compressor to compress the coil spring. Follow the manufacturer's instructions closely.

WARNING:

Do not remove the strut rod nut before the coil spring is properly compressed. The coil spring is held under pressure. The coil spring must be compressed, removing spring tension from the upper mount and bearing, before the strut rod nut is removed.

If both struts are being serviced at the same time, mark both the coil spring and strut assembly according to which side of the vehicle the strut is being removed from.

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Position the strut assembly (1) in the strut coil spring compressor (2) following the manufacturer's instructions and set the lower and upper hooks of the compressor on the coil spring. Position the strut clevis bracket straight outward, away from the compressor.
Compress the coil spring until all coil spring tension is removed from the upper mount and bearing.

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CAUTION:
Never use impact or high speed tools to remove the strut rod nut. Damage to the strut internal bearings can occur.
Once the spring is sufficiently compressed, install Strut Nut Wrench (2), Special Tool (special tool #6864, Wrench, Strut Nut), on the strut rod nut. Next, install an appropriate socket (1) on the end of the strut rod. While holding the strut rod from turning, remove the nut using the strut nut wrench.

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Remove the clamp (if installed) from the bottom of the coil spring and remove the strut (damper) (1) out through the bottom of the coil spring.
Remove the lower spring isolator (3) from the strut seat.
Remove the upper strut mount (6) from the top of the bearing and upper spring seat (3).
Remove the upper spring seat (3) from the top of the coil spring (2).
NOTE:
If the coil spring needs to be serviced, proceed with the next step, otherwise, proceed with Step 10.
Release the tension from the coil spring by backing off the compressor drive completely. Push back the compressor hooks and remove the coil spring.

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Inspect the strut assembly components for the following and replace as necessary:

Inspect the strut (damper) (1) for shaft binding over the full stroke of the shaft.
Check the upper mount (6) for cracks and distortion and its retaining studs for any sign of damage.
Check the bearing and upper spring seat (3) for any binding.
Inspect the upper and lower spring isolators for material deterioration and distortion.
Inspect the coil spring (2) for any sign of damage to the coating.

NOTE:

For reassembly, refer to STRUT, SUSPENSION, ASSEMBLY, ASSEMBLY .