GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

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 Compressor Lower Adapter
    • J-34013-972 Strut Compressor Upper Adapter

Disassemble Procedure

  1. Remove the strut from the vehicle. Refer to Strut Assembly Replacement .

  2. Object Number: 296868  Size: SH
  3. Install the strut to the following components:
  4. • J 34013-B
    • J 34013-971
    • J-34013-972
  5. Rotate the J 34013-B forcing screw (3) until the spring compresses slightly.

  6. Object Number: 346329  Size: SH
  7. Use the T 45 TORX® and the J 42991 in order to remove the strut shaft nut.
  8. Install the J 34013-197 to help guide the strut shaft out of the strut upper mount.
  9. 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.

  10. Loosen the compressor forcing 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.

Assembly Procedure


    Object Number: 144008  Size: SH
  1. Install the strut (1) to the J 34013-B .
  2. Install the J 34013-20 to the strut shaft (1).
  3. 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).

  4. Object Number: 296868  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.

  5. Install the strut to the following components:
  6. • J 34013-B
    • J 34013-971
    • J-34013-972
  7. Insert the J 34013-197 through the upper strut mount and into the strut shaft.
  8. Rotate the J 34013-B compressor forcing screw (3) clockwise, until the strut shaft threads are above the top of the strut.

  9. 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.

    Important: This is a prevailing torque type fastener. This fastener may be reused ONLY if:

       • The fastener and its counterpart are clean and free from rust.
       • The fastener develops 3 N·m (27 lb in) of torque/drag against its counterpart prior to the fastener seating.
    If the fastener does not meet these criteria, REPLACE the fastener.

  10. Install the strut shaft washer and the strut shaft nut.
  11. Remove the J 34013-20 from the strut shaft.

    Tighten
    Use the T 45 TORX® and the J 42991 in order to tighten the strut shaft nut to 85 N·m (63 lb ft).

  12. Remove the strut from the J 3289-20 .
  13. Install the strut to the vehicle. Refer to Strut Assembly Replacement .