GM 21019028 Front Suspension Strut Kit

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When doing this, one must use a spring compressor, which can usually be rented from auto parts stores or equipment yards. If the struts or coil springs seem damaged by leaking fluid, failure to dampen fast enough, or broken coil springs, it is important to consider repair options before proceeding. Problems require replacing strut and coil spring assemblies that cannot be repaired. Full strut assemblies with springs may be available for exchange and will save you time. Before disassembling: part availability and cost should be considered (John 2002). The first step is to remove the strut and spring assembly; however, care should be taken while fastening the strut clevis bracket on a vise so as not to destroy other parts of it using wood or rags. Follow all of the spring's manufacturer's instructions in order to install a spring compressor on it until compressing everything above the upper spring seat completely relieves any pressure. Use a socket wrench to grip the damper shaft and take off the nut from it and also remove the damper shaft itself together with an upper mount. Keep all taken-apart pieces arranged in their proper sequence and inspect rubber part of upper mount for cracks or deterioration-replace if necessary (John 2002). Take away upper spring seal after checking the rubber part for wear and tear and bearing for smooth functioning replacing as required (John 2002). Slip off the bump stop made of rubber from damper shaft and check its condition-replace if necessary (John 2002). Carefully lift out compressed spring from assembly making sure you label springs as LEFT & RIGHT if removing both struts (John 2002). For reassembly: extend damper rod, put on rubber bump stop, drop compressed coil spring onto lower seat of damper making sure end sits against raised stop (John 2002). Put on top insulator; place spring seat; put on top mount; then mount nut, tight to specified torque (John 2002). Finally, take off the spring compressor tool and replace the strut/spring assembly.

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.

Extend the damper rod, install the rubber bump stop, and place the compressed coil spring onto the lower seat of the damper, ensuring the end rests against the raised stop. Install the upper insulator, spring seat, upper mount, and mounting nut, then tighten it to the specified torque.

After installing these components, you should place the compressed coil spring onto the lower seat, ensuring it rests at the lowest part.

Have the front wheel alignment checked and, if necessary, adjusted.

Loosen the shock carrier-to-body upper mounting bolts and remove the shock.

During disassembly, various components need to be removed, including the upper cup, insulator, top carrier, lower insulator, sleeve, lower cup, and bump stop.

Loosen the upper mounting bolts and remove the shock absorber/coil spring assembly.