GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Disassemble Procedure

Tools Required

    • J 3289-20 Holding Fixture
    • J 34013-B Strut Compressor
    • J 34013-20 Damper Rod Clamp
    • J 34013-197 Alignment Rod
    • J 42991 Strut Rod Nut Socket
    • J 34013-971 Strut Lower Adapter. Part of kit J 34013-970
    • J-34013-972 Strut Upper Adapter . Part of kit J 34013-970

Notice: Care should be taken to avoid chipping or scratching the coating when handling the suspension coil spring. Damage to the coating can cause premature failure.


    Object Number: 296868  Size: SH
  1. Remove the strut from the vehicle. Refer to Strut Assembly Replacement .
  2. Install the strut (1) in the J 34013-B Using adapters J 34013-971 J-34013-972 and the J 3289-20 .
  3. Turn the compressor forcing screw (3) until the spring compresses slightly.

  4. Object Number: 346329  Size: SH
  5. Use a 45 Torx® socket in order to hold the strut shaft. Remove the strut mount nut by turning withJ 42991 .

  6. Object Number: 346329  Size: SH
  7. Install the J 34013-197 Alignment Rod to help guide the strut shaft out of the strut upper mount.
  8. Loosen the compressor screw while guiding the strut shaft out of the strut upper mount. Continue loosening the compressor forcing screw until you can remove the strut and the spring.

Assemble Procedure


    Object Number: 144008  Size: SH

    Important: When assembling the strut mount to the strut, orient the mount such that the mount stud without the hole next to it is lined up above the opening in the strut-to-knuckle attachment bracket. This should orient the wedge/bearing/upper spring seat such that the angle of the upper spring seat is approximately parallel to the angle of the lower spring seat. If it does not, rotate the wedge on the mount (keeping the mount oriented as described ) until the upper spring seat is approximately parallel to the lower spring seat.

  1. Assemble the strut (1) in the J 34013-B using adapters J 34013-971 J-34013-972 and J 34013-20 clamped to the strut shaft.
  2. Insert the spring over the strut in the correct position and move the spring upright in the strut compressor. Install the upper locking pin (2).

  3. Object Number: 296868  Size: SH
  4. Insert the J 34013-197 Alignment Rod into the strut (1) in order to guide the strut shaft.
  5. Start turning the compressor screw (3) clockwise on J 34013-B , while guiding J 34013-197 Alignment Rod to center the strut shaft.
  6. Continue to turn the compressor, forcing the screw on the strut compressor until the strut shaft threads are visible through the top of the strut.

  7. Object Number: 346329  Size: SH

    Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  8. Attach the washer and the nut.
  9. Remove the J 34013-20 from the strut shaft.

    Tighten
    Tighten the strut mount nut to 85 N·m (63 lb ft) with J 42991 while holding the strut shaft with a 45 Torx® socket (3).

  10. Remove the strut (1) from the strut compressor.
  11. Install the strut to vehicle. Refer to Strut Assembly Replacement .