Front Suspension

Strut, Strut Component, or Spring Replacement

Special Tools
* J 42991 - Strut Rod Nut Socket
* J 45400 - Strut Spring Compressor

Removal Procedure




1. Position the strut assembly in the J 45400 - compressor.

Note: Ensure that the strut assembly is vertical in the spring compressor.

2. Adjust the upper and lower legs so that they are properly positioned on the spring.
3. Compress the spring enough to unload the upper strut mount.




4. Remove the front suspension strut nut cover, if equipped.

Caution: Do not allow the absorber rod to rotate during disassembly/reassembly. Use hand tools to keep the absorber rod from rotating. If air tools are used, and the rod is allowed to rotate, damage to the absorber may occur.

Note: Use the proper size wrench to hold the strut shaft while loosening the strut nut.

5. Using the J 42991 and a hand ratchet, remove the strut nut.





Note: If the spring does not have to be serviced, leave the spring in the spiring compressor.

6. Lower the strut from the front spring.





Caution: Do not handle the top mount assembly by the plastic portion. Handle the top mount assembly by the metal portion when removing/installing the top mount from/to the strut assembly. Holding the top mount assembly by the plastic portion may loosen the snap fit of the bearing components and cause the bearing to fall apart.

Note: If any of the strut components are found to have signs of excessive wear or are damaged, replace those components.

7. Remove the front suspension strut mount, bearing, upper insulator.
8. Remove the front suspension strut and the dust shield and bumper from the front spring.
9. Remove the front spring if needed.

Installation Procedure




1. Position the front spring in the J 45400 - compressor , if removed.

Note: Ensure that the strut assembly is vertical in the spring compressor.

2. Adjust the upper and lower legs so that they are properly positioned on the spring.
3. Compress the spring enough to install the other front suspension strut components.




4. Install the dust shield and bumper on the front suspension strut.

Note: The end of the spring sits up against the tab on the spring seat.

5. Install the front suspension strut in the front spring.

Caution: Do not handle the top mount assembly by the plastic portion. Handle the top mount assembly by the metal portion when removing/installing the top mount from/to the strut assembly. Holding the top mount assembly by the plastic portion may loosen the snap fit of the bearing components and cause the bearing to fall apart.

Note: The flat on the metal plate of the top mount assembly must face the same direction of the anti-rotation tab on the spring seat.

6. Install the upper insulator, upper bearing, and the mount on the front suspension strut.
7. Position the mount onto the strut shaft and align the flat 180 degrees from flat on the upper spring seat.
8. Assemble the upper spring seat onto the strut shaft and align the flat with the strut to knuckle mounting bracket.




9. Install the front suspension strut nut.

Caution: Do not allow the absorber rod to rotate during disassembly/reassembly. Use hand tools to keep the absorber rod from rotating. If air tools are used, and the rod is allowed to rotate, damage to the absorber may occur.

Caution: Refer to Fastener Caution (Fastener Caution).

10. Using the J 42991 - socket and a torque wrench, tighten the front suspension strut nut to 75 Nm (55 lb ft).




11. Release the tension on the J 45400 .
12. Remove the strut assembly from the J 45400 .