Loosen the wheel lug nuts, raise the vehicle and support it securely on jackstands. Remove the wheel. Disconnect the stabilizer bar link from the strut, then remove the brake hose from the struts brake hose bracket. On models equipped with ABS, remove the ABS harness from the same bracket. Mark the relationship of the strut to the knuckle(these marks will be used during installation to ensure the camber is returned to its original setting). Remove the strut-to-knuckle nuts and knock the bolts out with a hammer and punch. Separate the strut from the
Steering Knuckle. Be careful not to overextend the inner CV joint. Also, don't let the steering knuckle fall outward, as the brake hose could be damaged. Support the strut and spring assembly with one hand and remove the upper mounting nut, then remove the assembly from the fenderwell. Check the strut body for leaking fluid, dents, cracks and other obvious damage that would warrant repair or replacement. Check the coil spring for chips or cracks in the spring coating. Inspect the spring seat for cuts, hardness and general deterioration. If any undesirable conditions exist, proceed to the strut disassembly procedure. Guide the strut assembly up into the fenderwell and insert the upper mounting stud through the hole in the shock tower. Once the stud protrudes from the shock tower, install the nut so the strut won't fall back through. This is most easily accomplished with the help of an assistant, as the strut is quite heavy and awkward. Slide the steering knuckle into the strut flange and insert the two bolts. Install the nuts, align the marks you made, then tighten the nuts to the specific torque. Reattach the brake hose to the strut bracket and reconnect the stabilizer bar link. If equipped, install the speed sensor wiring harness to the strut bracket. Install the wheel and lug nuts, then lower the vehicle and tighten the lug nuts to the specific torque. Tighten the upper mounting nut to the specific torque. Have the front wheel alignment checked and, if necessary, adjusted.