Special Tools

J-45400 Strut Spring Compressor

Caution: Use care when handling the coil springs in order to avoid chipping or scratching the coating. Damage to the coating will result in premature failure of the coil springs.

1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle.
2. Remove the tire and wheel. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation.
3. Remove the shock module from the vehicle. Refer to Shock Absorber and Spring Assembly Replacement.



4. Install the shock module into the spring compressor J-45400 Strut Spring Compressor .
5. Mark the upper control arm assembly and insulator for proper installation.




Note: The spring is compressed when the shock absorber moves freely.

6. Turn the spring compressor forcing screw (1) until the coil spring (2) is compressed.



7. Remove the shock absorber upper retaining nut.
8. Remove the shock absorber from the shock module.
9. Loosen the compressor forcing screw until the upper mounting plate and the coil spring may be removed.
10. Remove the upper control arm bracket assembly, the insulator, and the coil spring from the spring compressor J-45400 Compressor .

Note: Ensure the alignment pins in the upper control arm bracket are orientated 90 degrees with the shock absorber lower mounting holes.

1. Install the coil spring, the insulator, the upper control arm bracket assembly, and the shock absorber to the spring compressor J-45400 Compressor , aligning all marks made in disassembly procedure.
2. Turn the spring compressor forcing screw (1) until the coil spring is compressed.

Caution: Refer to Fastener Caution in the Preface section.




3. Install the shock absorber retaining nut and tighten to 42 N·m (31 lb ft).



4. Remove the shock module from the spring compressor J-45400 Compressor .
5. Install the shock module to the vehicle. Refer to Shock Absorber and Spring Assembly Replacement.
6. Install the tire and wheel. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation.
7. Lower the vehicle.