Strut, Suspension, Assembly: Disassembly: Disassembly

For the disassembly and assembly of the strut assembly, use strut spring compressor, teamPSE tool 223-7400, or the equivalent, to compress the coil spring. Follow the manufacturer's instructions closely.

1. 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.
   Fig 1: Strut Assembly In Compressor

   Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC
2. Position the strut assembly (2) in the strut coil spring compressor (1) following the manufacturer's instructions and set the lower and upper hooks of the compressor on the coil spring. Position the strut clevis bracket (2) straight outward, away from the compressor.
3. Compress the coil spring until all coil spring tension is removed from the upper mount and bearing.
   Fig 2: Special Tools On Strut Rod Nut

   Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC
   CAUTION:

   Never use impact or high speed tools to remove the strut rod nut. Damage to the strut internal bearings can occur.

4. Once the spring is sufficiently compressed, install Strut Nut Wrench (special tool #9362, Wrench, Strut Nut) (2) on the strut rod nut. Next, install Strut Shaft Socket (special tool #9894, Socket, Strut Shaft) (1) on the end of the strut rod. While holding the strut rod from turning, remove the nut using the strut nut wrench.
   Fig 3: Strut Assembly (Exploded)

   Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC
5. Remove the clamp (if installed) from the bottom of the coil spring and remove the strut (damper) (8) out through the bottom of the coil spring. The dust shield and jounce bumper will come out with the strut.
6. Remove the lower spring isolator (7) from the strut seat.
7. Slide the dust shield and jounce bumper (6) from the strut rod.
8. Remove the upper mount (2) and bearing (3) from the top of the upper spring seat and isolator (4).
9. Remove the upper spring seat and isolator (4) from the top of the coil spring (5).
   NOTE:

   If the coil spring needs to be serviced, proceed with the next step, otherwise, proceed with 11.

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.
    Fig 4: Strut Assembly (Exploded)

    Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC
11. Inspect the strut assembly components for the following and replace as necessary:

• Inspect the strut (damper) (8) for shaft binding over the full stroke of the shaft.
• Inspect the jounce bumper (with dust shield) (6) for cracks and signs of deterioration.
• Check the upper mount (2) for cracks and distortion and its retaining studs for any sign of damage.
• Check the bearing (3) for any binding.
• Check the upper spring seat and isolator (4) for cracks and distortion.
• Inspect the upper and lower spring isolators (4, 7) for material deterioration and distortion.
• Inspect the coil spring (5) for any sign of damage to the coating.