Strut, Suspension, Assembly: Disassembly
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.
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.
The internal hex of the strut rod must be held stationary when removing or installing the nut on the strut rod. If the strut rod spins, internal failure may occur to the strut causing it to no longer function correctly.
Never use impact or high speed tools to remove or install the strut rod nut. This can cause internal damage to the strut and the strut will no longer function correctly.
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, teamPSE tool 223-7400, or the equivalent, to compress the coil spring. Follow the manufacturer's instructions closely.
- 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.
- 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.
- Compress the coil spring until all coil spring tension is removed from the upper mount and bearing.
- Once the spring is sufficiently compressed, hold the internal hex of the strut rod stationary and remove the strut rod nut (2).
- Remove the strut (damper) (1) out through the bottom of the coil spring. The dust shield (10) and jounce bumper (4) will come out with the strut.
- Slide the dust shield (10) and jounce bumper (4) from the strut rod.
- Remove the upper mount and bearing (9) from the top of the coil spring (3).NOTE:
If the coil spring needs to be serviced, proceed with the next step, otherwise, proceed with step 9.
- Release the tension from the coil spring by backing off the compressor drive completely. Push back the compressor hooks and remove the coil spring. Make sure to replace the spring with one that has the exact same part tag (color and pattern) to ensure that the correct load spring is installed.
- 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.
- Inspect the jounce bumper (4) and dust shield (10) for cracks and signs of deterioration.
- Check the upper mount (9) for cracks and distortion.
- Check the upper spring seat and bearing for any binding.
- Inspect the coil spring (3) for any sign of damage to the coating.