Strut Assembly Removal and Installation

Strut Assembly Removal and Installation

Special Tools

* CH-49375 - Wrench

* EN-45059 - Angle Meter

For equivalent regional tools, refer to Special Tools Front Suspension.

Removal Procedure

1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle Service and Repair.

2. Remove the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation Removal and Replacement.




3. Separate the brake hose (1) from the shock absorber.




4. Remove and DISCARD the steering knuckle nuts and bolts (1).




5. Remove and DISCARD the stabilizer shaft link nut (1) from the front strut.

6. Lower the vehicle.




7. Remove the upper strut mount nut (1), use the CH-49375 - wrench.

8. Remove the strut mounting plate (2).

9. Separate the front strut from the knuckle.

10. Remove the front strut assembly from the vehicle.

11. For servicing the individual strut components, refer to Strut, Strut Component, or Spring Replacement Front Suspension.

Installation Procedure




1. Lightly apply rubber lubricant to the upper strut mount using rubber lubricant GM P/N 12345884 (Canadian P/N 5728223) to ease installation and for proper seating of mount.

2. Install the front strut assembly.





Caution: Refer to Fastener Caution Fastener Caution.

3. Install the strut mounting plate (2).

4. Install the upper strut mount nut (1).

5. Tighten the nut (1) to 65 Nm (48 lb ft), using the CH-49375 - wrench.




6. Insert the front strut in the knuckle.

Warning: Refer to Torque-to-Yield Fastener Warning Torque-to-Yield Fastener Warning.


7. Tighten the NEW steering knuckle nuts and bolts (1) a first pass to 90 Nm (66 lb ft).

8. Tighten the NEW steering knuckle nuts and bolts a final pass to an additional 60 - 70 degrees, using the EN-45059 - meter.




9. Install a NEW stabilizer shaft link nut (1) and tighten to 65 Nm (48 lb ft).




10. Install the brake hose (1) to the strut.

11. Install the front tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation Removal and Replacement.

12. Lower the vehicle.

13. Check the front camber alignment specifications. Refer to Front Camber Adjustment Front Camber Adjustment.