Front Suspension

Damper/Spring Disassembly, Inspection, and Reassembly

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 (B) with a hex wrench. 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 of the parts, except 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, or binding during these tests.

Reassembly
1. Assemble all of the damper components except the self-locking nut onto the damper unit. Align the spring bottom end (A), the stepped part of the lower spring mounting cushion, and the step on the lower spring seat (B).





2. Install the damper assembly on a commercially available strut spring compressor (C).
3. Position the stud bolt (A) in the damper mounting base as shown.





4. Compress the damper spring with the spring compressor.
5. Install a new self-locking nut (A) on the damper shaft.





6. Hold the damper shaft with a hex wrench (B), and tighten the self-locking nut to the specified torque.