Piston Rod Nut Removal Note

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2008 Mazda 5. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

WARNING:

Before removing the piston rod nut, secure the shock absorber and coil spring in the SSTs. Otherwise, the coil spring could fly off under tremendous pressure and cause serious injury or death, or damage to vehicle parts.

Install the shock absorber and coil spring to the SST according to the following procedures.
NOTE:
- Install the SST using a piece of clean rag to prevent the coil spring from being scratched.
1. Set the SST attachment (tabs) to the positions shown in the figure.
  
  Fig 1: Identifying Special Service Tool
  Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
2. Install the front shock absorber and coil spring to the SST so that the coil spring is set the position shown in the figure.
  
  Fig 2: Identifying Special Service Tool
  Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Compress the coil spring using the SSTs and remove the piston rod nut.

Fig 3: Removing Piston Rod Nut
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.