Caution: The front shock absorbers of the vehicle are multifunctional. In addition to contributing to a smooth ride they also provide the only stop to the front suspension when fully extended. Therefore, when servicing the shock absorber, service replacement shock absorbers must be equivalent to original shock absorbers in both extended length and strength. Use of shocks not complying to original equipment or strength could result in suspension over-travel or shock breakage. Suspension over-travel may result in suspension component breakage.

1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle.
2. Support the lower control arm with a suitable stand.
3. Hold the tennon end with a wrench while removing the nut.



4. Remove the nut.



5. Remove the upper insulator (1). Do not discard the plastic pilot ring (2).



6. Remove the shock absorber mounting bolts at the lower control arm.
7. Remove the shock absorber through the lower control arm from below.

1. Support the lower control arm with a suitable jack in order to align the tennon with the mounting hole.
2. Install the shock absorber through the lower control arm from below. Insert the tennon through the mounting hole in the upper spring pocket.
3. Align the shock absorber with the mounting holes in the lower control arm.

Caution: Refer to Fastener Caution in the Preface section.




4. Install the shock absorber mounting bolts to the lower control arm.

Tighten
Tighten the bolts to 80 N·m (59 lb ft).





Note: The upper insulator (1) must be installed above the shock mounting bracket on the frame. The plastic pilot ring (2) will assist the alignment of the isolators.

5. Install the upper insulator to the shock absorber.



6. Install the nut to the tennon end.
7. Hold the tennon end with a wrench while torquing the nut.

Tighten
Tighten the nut to 27 N·m (20 lb ft).

8. Remove the support stand.
9. Lower the vehicle