Rear Strut

REMOVAL
1. Remove the rear wheels.
2. Remove the speaker cover and speaker (Hatchback) Sedan and Coupe: Remove the trunk side pane.





3. Remove the two flange nuts.





4. Remove the flange bolt from the damper.
5. Remove the flange bolt that connects the lower arm to the trailing arm.





6. Lower the rear suspension, and remove the damper.

DISASSEMBLE





1. Compress the damper spring with the spring compressor according to the manufacturer's instructions, then remove the self-locking nut.

CAUTION: Do not compress the spring more than necessary to remove the self-locking nut.

2. Release the pressure from the spring compressor, then disassemble.





INSPECTION
1. Reassemble all parts, except the spring.





2. Push on the damper as shown.
3. Check for smooth operation through a full stroke, both compression and extension.

NOTE: The damper should move smoothly. If it does not (no compression or no extension), the gas is leaking, and the damper should be replaced.

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

ASSEMBLE
1. Install the damper unit on a spring compressor.

NOTE: Follow the manufacturer's instructions.

2. Assemble the rear damper in reverse order of disassembly except the damper mounting washer and self-locking nut.

NOTE: Align the bottom of damper spring and spring lower seat as shown.





3. Position the damper mounting base on the damper unit as shown.
4. Compress the damper spring with the spring compressor.
5. Install the damper mounting washer, and loosely install a new self-locking nut.





6. Hold the damper shaft with a hex wrench and tighten the self-locking nut.

INSTALLATION





1. Lower the rear suspension, and position the damper with the spring stop pointed toward the left side of the vehicle.





2. Loosely install the two flange nuts.





3. Loosely install the flange bolt.
4. Raise the rear suspension with a floor jack until the vehicle just lifts off the safety stand.

WARNING: The floor jack must be securely positioned or personal injury may result.

5. Tighten the flange bolt.
6. Tighten the two flange nuts on top of the damper to the specified torque.
7. Check the rear wheel alignment and adjust if necessary.