Strut Assembly: Removal
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 1997 Pontiac Grand Am, 1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass, 1997 Oldsmobile Achieva, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu, and 1997 Buick Skylark. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- Remove nuts securing upper strut to body mount (DO NOT remove nut on end of strut rod).
- Raise and support vehicle, allowing suspension to hang free. Remove wheel. Disconnect ABS wheel speed sensor connector (if equipped). Remove brakeline bracket from strut. Disconnect tie rod end (if necessary). Mark strut in relation to steering knuckle (if reusing strut). Remove strut bolts. Remove strut.
WARNING:
DO NOT remove nut from top of strut rod unless coil spring has been compressed. Coil spring is under extreme pressure. If nut is removed without first compressing spring, coil spring will violently decompress, possibly resulting in severe personal injury.
CAUTION:
After separating strut from steering knuckle, support steering knuckle in upright position to prevent damage to components. DO NOT overextend axle shaft CV joints. DO NOT chip or crack coil spring coating. Coil spring may fail if coating is damaged.