SHOCK ABSORBER, Suspension, Coil-Over: Disassembly: Disassembly

For the disassembly and assembly of the shock assembly, use Strut Spring Compressor, team PSE tool 223-7400, or the equivalent, to compress the coil spring. Follow the manufacturer's instructions closely.

1. If both shocks are being serviced at the same time, mark both the coil spring and shock assembly according to which side of the vehicle the shock is being removed from.
2. If equipped, remove the noise abatement cap from top of the shock assembly.
   Fig 1: SHOCK ASSEMBLY IN COMPRESSOR

   Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC
3. Position the shock assembly (2) in the strut spring compressor (1) following the manufacturer's instructions and set the lower and upper hooks of the compressor on the coil spring.
4. Compress the coil spring until all spring tension is removed from the upper mounting bracket and bushings.
   Fig 2: SHOCK ROD RETAINER NUT

   Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC
   CAUTION: Never use impact or high speed tools to remove the shock rod nut. Damage to the shock internal bearings can occur.
5. Once the spring is sufficiently compressed, install Snap-On® Shock Absorber Socket A139, or equivalent, on the end of the shock rod (1). While holding the shock rod from turning, remove the nut (2) using a wrench. Remove the washer below the nut.
   Fig 3: SHOCK ASSEMBLY (EXPLODED)

   Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC
6. Remove the shock absorber (13) out through the bottom of the coil spring (11). The washer (8), jounce bumper (9), dust shield (10) and lower spring isolator (12) will come out with the shock.
7. Slide the washer (8), jounce bumper (9), dust shield (10) from the shock rod.
8. Remove the lower spring isolator (12) from the shock spring seat.
9. Remove the upper mounting bracket (4), bushings (3, 7), sleeve (6) and upper spring isolator (5) from the top of the spring.
10. Remove the bushings (3, 7), sleeve (6) and upper spring isolator (5) from the upper mounting bracket (4).
    NOTE: If the coil spring needs to be serviced, proceed with the next step, otherwise, proceed with  12.
11. 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: SHOCK ASSEMBLY (EXPLODED)

    Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC
12. Inspect the shock assembly components for the following and replace as necessary:
    NOTE: For reassembly. See Rear Suspension/SHOCK ABSORBER, Suspension - Assembly 

• Inspect the shock (13) for shaft binding over the full stroke of the shaft.
• Inspect the jounce bumper (9) for cracks and signs of deterioration.
• Inspect the dust shield (10) for cracks and tears.
• Check the upper mounting bracket (4) for cracks and distortion and its retaining studs for any sign of damage.
• Inspect the upper (3) and lower (7) bushings, for material deterioration and signs of deterioration. Inspect the sleeve (6) for wear and distortion.
• Inspect the upper (5) and lower (12) spring isolators for material deterioration and distortion.
• Inspect the coil spring (11) for any sign of damage to the coating.