Genuine Cadillac DTS Shock Absorber

Cadillac DTS Shock Absorber Parts Questions & Experts Answers

• Front Suspension Strut Kit
  19300024
  Q: How do you remove and install front strut and Coil Springs?

  A: To remove the strut, first apply the parking brake and block the rear wheels. Loosen the wheel lug nuts and raise the front of the vehicle, supporting it securely on jackstands. Remove the wheel and mark the relationship of the strut to the Steering Knuckle. Remove the brake hose bracket and ABS wiring harness bracket from the strut. Then, remove the strut-to-knuckle nuts and knock the bolts out with a soft-face hammer. On 1999 models, disconnect the stabilizer bar link from the strut. Separate the strut from the steering knuckle, being careful not to overextend the inner CV joint or stretch the brake hose. If equipped, unplug the electrical connector from the strut. Have an assistant support the strut assembly and remove the three strut upper mounting nuts or bolts. Remove the assembly through the fender well. For inspection, check the strut body for leaking fluid, dents, cracks, and other obvious damage that would require repair or replacement. Check the coil spring for chips and cracks in the spring coating, as this can cause premature spring failure. Inspect the spring seat for hardening, cracks, and general deterioration. If wear or damage is evident, replace the strut. To install the strut, first install the strut coil spring assembly. Once the strut is in place in the strut tower, install the upper mounting nuts or bolts to prevent the strut coil spring assembly from falling back through. This may require an assistant due to the weight and awkwardness of the strut. If equipped, reconnect the electrical connector to the strut. Slide the steering knuckle into the strut flange and insert the two bolts, with the bolt heads pointing towards the front of the vehicle. Install the nuts, align the marks, and tighten them to the specified torque. On 1999 models, reconnect the stabilizer bar link to the strut and tighten the nut to the specified torque. Reconnect the brake hose and ABS harness brackets to the strut, tightening the bolts securely. Install the wheel, lower the vehicle, and tighten the lug nuts to the specified torque. Finally, tighten the three upper mounting nuts or bolts to the specified torque. Have the front-end alignment checked and adjusted if necessary.
• Rear Shock Absorber Kit
  19121822
  Q: How do you remove a rear shock absorber?

  A: To remove the shock absorber, start by loosening the rear wheel lug nuts and raising the rear of the vehicle on jackstands. Remove the wheel and disconnect the air line at the shock absorber. Support the lower Control Arm with a floor jack and, if equipped with road-sensing suspension, disconnect the electrical connector from the shock absorber. Depending on the model, remove the nut and bolt or two bolts securing the shock absorber to the control arm. For a 1999 DeVille, also remove the upper mounting nut, retainer, and insulator. For a 2000 or later DeVille or a 1999 or later Seville, open the trunk, pull back the carpet, remove the dust cover, and unscrew the upper mounting nuts. For a later model Seville, open the trunk, pull back the carpet, and disconnect the road-sensing suspension harness connector from the shock absorber. Finally, remove the shock absorber. To install, follow the reverse of the removal steps, ensuring to tighten the mounting fasteners to the specified torque and allowing the Electronic Level Control system to pressurize before lowering the vehicle and tightening the lug nuts.
• Front Suspension Strut Kit
  19208029
  Q: How to replace the front struts and Coil Springs?

  A: To remove the struts, first, check for signs of wear such as leaking fluid or loss of dampening capability. Consider options like rebuilt or new strut assemblies that may be available on an exchange basis. Once ready, remove the strut and spring assembly and mount it in a vise, cushioning the vise jaws with rags or blocks of wood. Use a spring compressor to relieve pressure from the spring seat, following the tool manufacturer's instructions. Loosen the damper shaft nut while holding the shaft stationary with the proper tool. Lift off the bearing cap, upper spring seat, and upper insulator, inspecting the bearing in the spring seat for smooth operation and replacing if necessary. Carefully remove the compressed spring assembly and set it aside. For installation, assemble the new strut starting with the lower spring insulator and spring, followed by the upper spring insulator, spring seat, and bearing cap. Position the spring seal and bearing cap with the flats facing the steering knuckle flange. Install and tighten the damper shaft nut to the specified torque. Finally, install the strut and spring assembly and have the front-end alignment checked and adjusted if needed.