GM 20909157 Front Suspension Strut Assembly

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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.

Guide the strut 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.

The strut and spring assembly should be removed and mounted in a vise, taking care to protect the unit.

Slightly raise the outer end of the lower control arm with a floor jack.

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.

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.

Slightly raise the outer end of the lower control arm with a floor jack.

Signs of wear in struts and coil springs include leaking fluid, loss of damping capability, chipped, sagging, or cracked coil springs. If any of these issues are observed, it is essential to explore all options before starting any work.