Strut Assembly: Disassembly

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: Tools Required: Strut Spring Compressor (J-34013-B), Damper Rod Clamp (J-34013-20), Alignment Rod (J-34013-197), Strut Compressor Adapter (J-34013-125), Strut Compressor Lower Adapter (J-34013-971), and Strut Rod Nut Socket (J-42991).

Remove strut from vehicle.
Install the strut to the J-34013-B. Use wing nuts to secure the tool to the mounting holes. Position the wide end of the adapter outboard.

Fig 1: Installing Strut To Spring Compressor
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

NOTE: Align J-34013-971 and J-34013-125 so that the tools may open and close together. The tools will not open if the tools do not align properly.

Fig 2: Installing Strut Onto Strut Spring Compressor

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Install J-34013-971 and J-34013-125.
Install the strut into J-34013-971 and J-34013-125.
Close J-34013-971 and J-34013-125.
Install the locking pins through the holes of J-34013-B and the struts mounting holes.

WARNING: Do not over compress the spring. Severe overloading may cause tool failure which could result in bodily injury.

Turn the screw on J-34013-B counterclockwise to raise the strut up to J-34013-125.
Compress the spring approximately 0.5" (13 mm) or 3-4 complete turns of the operating screw.
Insert J-42991 on the nut.

Fig 3: Inserting Strut Rod Nut Socket On Nut
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Hold shaft with a T-45 bit.
Use J-42991 in order to remove the nut while preventing the rod from rotating with a T-45 TORX® bit.
Discard the strut nut.
Turn the operating screw on J-34013-B clockwise to fully relieve the spring compression.