Front Suspension

Damper/Spring Disassembly, Inspection, and Reassembly

Front Suspension Damper/Spring:

NOTE: When compressing the damper spring, use a commercially available strut spring compressor (Branick MST-580A or Model 7200, or equivalent) according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Disassembly

1. Compress the damper spring, then remove the self-locking nut (A) while holding the damper shaft with a hex wrench (B). Do not compress the spring more than necessary to remove the nut.





2. Release the pressure from the strut spring compressor, then disassemble the damper as shown in the Exploded View.

Inspection

1. Reassemble all the parts, except for the damper spring mounting cushion and the damper spring.
2. Compress the damper assembly by hand, and check for smooth operation through a full stroke, both compression and extension. The damper should extend smoothly and constantly when compression is released. If it does not, the gas is leaking and the damper should be replaced.





3. Check for oil leaks, abnormal noises, and binding during these tests.

Reassembly

NOTE: Refer to the Exploded View as needed.

1. Reassemble the damper except for the washer and self-locking nut.
2. Install the damper assembly on a commercially available strut spring compressor (A), and compress the spring lightly.





3. Align the bottom of the damper spring and the stepped part (B) of the lower spring seat.
4. Position the damper mounting base (A) so the stud bolt (B) is aligned with the aligning tab (C) in the damper unit.





5. Compress the damper spring. Do not compress the spring excessively.
6. Install the washer (A) and a new 10 mm self-locking nut (B).





7. Hold the damper shaft with a hex wrench (C), and tighten the 10 mm self-locking nut to the specified torque value.
8. Remove the damper assembly from the strut spring compressor.