OVERHAUL

1. Remove the strut from the vehicle.
2. If the vehicle is not equipped with AAS, remove the cap from the top of the strut.

   Fig. 1: Exploded view of the front strut assembly. Rear strut is similar

3. Install the strut securely in a vise with either aluminum or copper plates to protect the strut.
4. Loosen the piston rod upper nut several turns but DO NOT REMOVE IT.

   Fig. 2: Secure the upper strut mount in a vise and loosen the piston rod nut several turns but DO NOT REMOVE IT!

5. Install the lower end of the strut in the vise and install a coil spring compressor. Compress the coil spring and remove the upper nut.

   CAUTION
   Failure to fully compress the spring and hold it securely can be extremely dangerous.

6. Slowly release the coil spring tension.

   Fig. 3: Use a coil spring compressor and relieve the spring tension from the upper mount, then remove the piston rod nut

7. Remove the suspension support, dust seal, spring seat, spring insulators, coil spring and bumper.
8. While pushing on the piston rod, make sure that the pull stroke is even and that there is no unusual noise or resistance. Also inspect for any oil leakage around the piston rod.
9. Push the piston rod in and then release it. Make sure that the return rate is constant.
10. If the shock absorber does not operate as described, replace it.

    To assemble:

11. Install the strut assembly into a vise.
12. Install the bound stopper and dust boot onto the piston rod.
13. Install the coil spring and compress the coil spring with the spring compressor.
14. Install the rubber seat, the spring upper seat, the bearing and the mounting block. Make sure that the spring upper seat notched portion is facing inward and tighten the piston rod upper nut.
15. Remove the spring compressor from the strut. Secure the upper mounting block in the vise. Tighten the nut to specification.
16. Make sure that the spring is well seated in the upper seats.
17. Install the strut to the vehicle.