Contents: Disassembling the rack ⇓ Assembly ⇓
1. If the shock absorber or strut springs are faulty (cracks, fluid leaks, loss of resistance), explore the possibility of purchasing a stand before you begin. A faulty strut shock absorber cannot be repaired and must be replaced. Try to purchase a refurbished rack assembly, which will save you time and money. In any case, weigh all your options before starting any renovation work.
Caution! Disassembling the rack poses a potential health hazard. Use extreme caution when performing this work. Use only a high quality spring compressor and follow all instructions for using the tool. After removing the spring, store it together with the puller in a separate safe place.
Disassembling the rack
2. Remove the rack as described in paragraph 2 (for front suspension strut) or in paragraph 9 (for rear suspension strut). Secure the stand in a vice, placing rags or wooden blocks under the vice jaws. Do not tighten the vice too much.
3. Install the spring compressor according to the manufacturer's instructions (the puller can be purchased at a parts store) and compress the spring so that it moves away from the top plate (figure 3.3). You can verify that the spring has come away from the top plate by moving it.
4. Unscrew the shock absorber rod nut (figure 3.4).
5. Remove the upper strut support (figure 3.5). Inspect the bearing and make sure that. that it is not damaged and rotates smoothly. If the bearing is faulty, replace it. Inspect the rubber seal for damage. Replace faulty components if necessary.
6. Remove the upper plate together with the compressed spring and the puller (figure 3.6). Inspect the spring support rubber gasket and ensure it is in good condition. Replace faulty components.
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Caution: Stay away from the ends of the compressed spring. After removing the spring, store it together with the puller in a separate safe place.
7. Disconnect the plate and rubber ring from the spring.
8. Remove the rubber boot from the rod.
9. Inspect the lower support gasket for cracks, chips or other damage and replace it if necessary.
Assembly
10. If you installed a new lower mount spacer, rotate it so that the step on it is at the lowest point on the lower spring plate. Pull the shock absorber rod out to its full length and put the rubber boot on it.
11. Install the spring on the lower plate so that the end of the spring fits into the ledge of the plate (figure 3.11).
12. Install the upper seal and spring retainer. Make sure the plate cutout is facing outward and is in line with the strut mounting points on the steering knuckle (figure 3.12).
13. Install the seal and upper strut support onto the shock absorber rod.
14. Screw on the nut and tighten it to the required torque.
15. Install the stand (see paragraph 2 for front suspension strut or paragraph 9 for the rear suspension strut).