Shock Absorber, Suspension, Coil-Over: Assembly: Assembly

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2014 Dodge Journey. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Fig 1: Identifying Pliers On Chrome Machined Surface Of Shock/Strut Rod

Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC

CAUTION:

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.

NOTE:

If the coil spring has been removed from the spring compressor, proceed with the next step, otherwise, proceed with step 3.

NOTE:

To determine the flat coil end of the coil spring for the following step, attempt to stand the coil spring on end on a flat, level surface. If the coil spring stands on end, the end on the flat surface is the flat coil end. If the coil spring falls over, the end on the flat surface is not the flat coil end. Stand the coil spring on the opposite end to verify.

Place the coil spring flat coil end downward (see above note) in the spring compressor following the manufacturer's instructions.
Slowly compress the coil spring until enough room is available for shock assembly reassembly.

Fig 2: Exploded View Of Shock Assembly
Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC
Assemble the bushings (3, 6) and sleeve (5) through the upper mounting bracket (4).

Fig 3: Upper Mounting Bracket Feature
Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC

NOTE:
When installing the upper spring isolator on the upper mounting bracket in the following step, make sure the tab on the isolator is positioned toward the forward mounting stud on the mounting bracket. To determine the forward mounting stud on the mounting bracket, position the angular formed side (as viewed from above; opposite side of bracket is rounded) of the mounting bracket flange (1) toward you with the mounting studs pointing upwards. The stud to the left would be the forward mounting stud for a left rear shock assembly. The stud to the right would be the forward mounting stud for a right rear shock assembly.

Fig 4: Exploded View Of Shock Assembly
Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC
If not already together, install the upper spring isolator (10) on the upper mounting bracket (4). Make sure the tab on the isolator is positioned toward the forward mounting stud on the mounting bracket (See above note).
Install the upper mounting bracket (4) on top of the coil spring (11) matching the step in the isolator to the end of the coil.
Install the lower spring isolator (12) on the spring seat of the shock absorber (13).

Fig 5: Exploded View Of Shock Assembly
Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC
Slide the dust shield (9), jounce bumper (8) and washer (7) onto the shock rod.
Install the shock absorber (13) up through the bottom of the coil spring (11) and upper mounting bracket until the lower spring seat contacts the lower end of the coil spring.
While holding the shock absorber in position, install the washer (2) and nut (1) on the end of the shock rod.

Fig 6: Shock Rod Retainer Nut
Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC

CAUTION:
Never use impact or high speed tools to remove the shock rod nut. Damage to the shock internal bearings can occur.
Install Snap-On® Shock Absorber Socket A139, or equivalent, on the end of the shock rod (1). While holding the shock rod from turning, tighten the nut (2) using a crows foot wrench and a torque wrench. Tighten the shock rod nut to 41 N.m (30 ft. lbs.).

Fig 7: Shock Assembly In Compressor
Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC
Turn the upper mounting bracket or shock absorber as necessary until the mounting studs on the mounting bracket line up with the lower mounting bolt eyelet at the bottom of the shock absorber.
Slowly release the tension from the coil spring by backing off the compressor (1) drive completely.
Remove the shock assembly from the spring compressor.
Install the shock assembly on the vehicle. Refer to SHOCK ABSORBER, SUSPENSION, COIL-OVER, INSTALLATION .