GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Disassemble Procedure

Tools Required

    • J 34013-B Strut Compressor
    • J 34013-88 Strut Compressor Adapter
    • J 35669 Strut Rod Nut Socket
    • J 35668 Strut Alignment Rod

    Important: The springs are under high tension. Use the proper spring compression tool in order to remove the strut shaft NUT.

  1. Remove the knuckle/strut from the vehicle. Refer to Steering Knuckle with Strut Replacement .

  2. Object Number: 177701  Size: MH
  3. Mount the knuckle/strut in the J 34013-B and the J 34013-88 .
  4. Use the forcing screw (1) to compress the spring just enough in order to release the spring tension from the strut shaft.

  5. Object Number: 177699  Size: MH
  6. Use a T-50 TORX® bit and the J 35669 in order to remove the strut shaft nut (1).
  7. Relieve all spring tension.

  8. Object Number: 177696  Size: MH
  9. Disassemble the spring and the strut components (1-5).
  10. Inspect all the components for wear and/or damage.

Assemble Procedure


    Object Number: 177696  Size: MH
  1. Install the strut bumper (5).
  2. Install the front spring seat (4).

  3. Install the lower spring insulator. Ensure the lower spring coil end is visible between the step and the first retention tab of the insulator.
  4. Install the front suspension spring (3).
  5. Install the strut shield to the front spring seat (4).
  6. Install the upper spring insulator (2). Ensure that the upper spring coil end is between the step and the location mark on the insulator.

  7. Object Number: 177701  Size: MH
  8. Install the strut mount (5). Align the strut cartridge shaft with the J 35668 .
  9. Use the J 34013-B forcing screw (1) to compress the strut.

  10. Object Number: 177699  Size: MH
  11. Pull the strut shaft through the strut retainer (3).
  12. Remove the J 35668 .
  13. Use the J 35669 and a T-50 TORX® bit to install the strut mount insulator (2) and the shaft nut (1).
  14. Tighten
    Tighten the strut piston shaft nut to 80 N·m (59 lb ft).

  15. Install the knuckle/strut to the vehicle. Refer to Steering Knuckle with Strut Replacement .