Strut Disassembly/Assembly

Fig. 12 Removing damper & coil spring from strut:

DISASSEMBLY
1. Clamp strut compressor, tool No. J-26854, in a suitable vise.
2. Install strut assembly into bottom adapter of compressor and install bottom adapter, Fig. 12. Ensure strut and locating pins are fully engaged.
3. Rotate strut assembly until top mounting assembly lip is aligned with compressor support notch.
4. Install upper adapter onto top spring seal, Fig. 12, so long stud is at high location to strut flange.
5. Rotate compressor forcing screw clockwise until top support flange contacts top adapter, and continue turning screw to compress strut spring.
6. Install second upper adapter over spring seat assembly, then rotate forcing screw counterclockwise until strut spring tension is relieved.
7. Remove top adapters, bottom adapter and strut.

Fig. 13 Strut assembly alignment & components:

ASSEMBLY
1. Perform steps 1 and 2 as outlined in the ``Disassembly'' procedure.
2. Rotate strut assembly until mounting flange is facing outward, opposite compressor forcing screw.
3. Install strut components, Fig. 13. Ensure spring is properly seated on bottom spring plate.
4. Install strut spring seat assembly on top of spring with long stud positioned 180° from strut mounting flange.
5. Install top adapter over spring seat assembly.
6. Rotate compressor forcing screw until compressor top support just contacts top adapter. Do not compress spring.
7. Install strut alignment rod through top spring seat and thread onto damper shaft hand tight, Fig. 13.
8. Rotate compressor forcing screw clockwise to compress spring until damper shaft is exposed enough so nut can be threaded securely, then install the nut. Ensure damper shaft comes through center of spring seat opening to prevent damage. Do not compress spring until bottomed.
9. Remove alignment rod, then install mount and torque nut to 65 ft. lbs.
10. Rotate compressor forcing screw counterclockwise and remove strut assembly from compressor.