Q: How do you remove the front strut assembly on Saturn Vue?
A: To remove the strut assembly, start by loosening the wheel lug nuts and raising the vehicle on jack stands. 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 to shock tower fasteners. For inspection, check the strut body for any leaking fluid, dents, cracks, or other damage that would require repair or replacement. Also, inspect the coil spring for chips or cracks in the spring coating and check the spring seat for cuts, hardness, and general deterioration. To install the strut assembly, guide it up into the fender well and insert the upper mounting studs through the holes in the shock tower. Install the nuts and bolt to secure the strut. Slide the steering knuckle into the strut flange and insert the two bolts, matching the position previously marked. Tighten the nuts to the specified torque. Reattach the brake hose bracket and stabilizer bar link. Install the wheel and lug nuts, lower the vehicle, and tighten the lug nuts to the specified torque. Finally, tighten the three upper mounting nuts to the specified torque and consider having the front wheel alignment checked and adjusted if necessary.
A: To remove the shock absorber, start by loosening the rear wheel lug nuts and raising the rear of the vehicle. Support it securely on jack stands and remove the wheel. Then, remove the inner fender splash shield. 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 follow the reverse steps of the removal process.
Q: How to disassemble the strut and spring assembly?
A: To disassemble the strut and spring assembly, start by removing it and mounting it in a vise lined with wood or rags to prevent damage. Use a spring compressor to relieve all force from the upper spring seat, then loosen the damper shaft nut. Remove the nut and suspension support, inspecting the bearing for smooth operation and the rubber portion for any cracking or deterioration. Remove the top mount assembly and upper spring seat, checking for any cracking and replacing if necessary. Carefully lift the compressed spring and set it aside, then remove the dust boot and rubber bumper from the damper shaft. Finally, check the lower insulator for wear, cracking, and hardness, replacing if needed. To reassemble, start by placing the lower insulator in position, followed by the dust boot and rubber bumper. Carefully place the coil spring onto the lower insulator, ensuring it rests against the rotation tab. Install the upper spring seat and top mount, aligning them correctly. Install the damper nut and remove the spring compressor tool. Finally, tighten the shaft nut to the specified torque.