Question 1

How to disassemble and reassemble a strut or coil spring assembly for Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain?

Accepted Answer

If the struts or coil springs show signs of wear such as leaking fluid, loss of damping capability, chipped, sagging, or cracked coil springs, it is important to explore all options before starting any work. The strut/shock absorber assemblies cannot be serviced and must be replaced if there is a problem. However, there may be strut assemblies available with springs on an exchange basis, which can save time and effort. Before disassembling the vehicle, it is recommended to check the cost and availability of parts. To disassemble, the strut and spring assembly should be removed and mounted in a vise, taking care to protect the unit. A spring compressor should be installed following the manufacturer's instructions to relieve force from the upper spring seat. The damper shaft nut should be loosened and removed, along with the suspension support. The bearing and rubber portion of the suspension support should be inspected and replaced if necessary. The top mount assembly and upper spring seat should be removed, checking for cracking and replacing if needed. The compressed spring should be carefully lifted and set aside. The dust boot and rubber bumper should be removed, and the lower insulator should be checked for wear and replaced if necessary. To reassemble, if the lower insulator is being replaced, it should be set into position with the dropped portion seated properly. The dust boot should be replaced, and the damper rod should be extended and the rubber bumper installed. The coil spring should be placed onto the lower insulator, with the end resting properly. The upper spring seat and top mount should be installed, aligning them correctly. The damper nut should be tightened to the specified torque, and the spring compressor tool can be removed.

Question 2

How to check Shock Absorber?

Accepted Answer

The steering linkage and suspension components should be checked periodically. Worn or damaged suspension and steering linkage components can result in excessive and abnormal tire wear, poor ride quality and vehicle handling, and reduced fuel economy. To check the strut and shock absorber, park the vehicle on level ground, turn the engine off and set the parking brake. Check the tire pressures. Push down at one corner of the vehicle, then release it while noting the movement of the body. It should stop moving and come to rest in a level position within one or two bounces. If the vehicle continues to move up-and-down or if it fails to return to its original position, a worn or weak shock absorber is probably the reason. Repeat the above check at each of the three remaining corners of the vehicle. Raise the vehicle and support it securely on jackstands. Check the struts/shock absorbers for evidence of fluid leakage. A light film of fluid is no cause for concern. Make sure that any fluid noted is from the struts/shocks and not from some other source. If leakage is noted, replace the struts/shocks as a set. Check the struts/shocks to be sure that they are securely mounted and undamaged. Check the upper mounts for damage and wear. If damage or wear is noted, replace the struts/shocks as a set. Visually inspect the steering and suspension components for damage and distortion. Look for damaged seals, boots and bushings and leaks of any kind. Examine the bushings where the control arms meet the chassis. Clean the lower end of the steering knuckle. Have an assistant grasp the lower edge of the tire and move the wheel in-and-out while you look for movement at the steering knuckle-to-control arm balljoint. If there is any movement the balljoint must be replaced. Grasp each front tire at the front and rear edges, push in at the front, pull out at the rear and feel for play in the steering system components. If any freeplay is noted, check the tie-rod ends for looseness or wear.

Question 3

How do you remove the front strut assembly on Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain?

Accepted Answer

To remove the strut assembly, start by loosening the wheel lug nuts and raising the vehicle securely on jackstands. Remove the wheel and support the control arm with a floor jack. Then, unbolt the brake hose bracket from the strut and disconnect the upper end of the stabilizer bar link. Mark the exact position of the strut to the steering knuckle and remove the strut-to-knuckle bolts and nuts. Support the strut and spring assembly and remove the three strut upper mounting fasteners. Once removed, inspect the strut body for any leaking fluid, dents, cracks, or other damage that may require repair or replacement. Check the coil spring for chips or cracks in the spring coating and inspect the spring seat for cuts, hardness, and general deterioration. If any undesirable conditions are found, proceed to the strut disassembly procedure. To install the strut assembly, guide it into position and secure the fasteners to prevent the strut from falling back through. Slide the steering knuckle into the strut flange and insert the two bolts, matching the previously marked position of the strut to the steering knuckle. Tighten the nuts to the specified torque. Reattach the brake hose bracket and stabilizer bar link. Install the wheel and lug nuts, then lower the vehicle and tighten the lug nuts to the specified torque. Finally, tighten the upper mounting fasteners to the specified torque. It is recommended to have the front wheel alignment checked and adjusted if necessary after completing this job.

Question 4

How do you remove the rear shock absorber for Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain?

Accepted Answer

To remove the shock absorber, start by loosening the rear wheel lug nuts and raising the rear of the vehicle. Support it securely on jackstands and remove the wheel. Then, remove the inner fender splash shields. Next, slightly raise the outer end of the lower control arm with a floor jack to prevent it from moving downward when the shock absorber mounting bolts are removed. Proceed to remove the upper and lower shock absorber mounting bolts and finally remove the shock absorber. To install the shock absorber, simply reverse the removal steps and tighten the mounting fasteners to the specified torque.

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