GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

Tools Required

J 24319-01 Tie Rod End Puller.


    Object Number: 171135  Size: SH
  1. Remove the nuts (1) and the bolt (4) attaching the top of the strut assembly  ,(2) to the body.
  2. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  3. Place jack stands under the front suspension support.
  4. Lower the vehicle slightly so that the weight of the car rests on the jack stands and not the control arms.
  5. Remove the tire and wheel assemblies. Refer to Wheel Removal in Tires and Wheels.
  6. Remove the brake line bracket.
  7. Scribe the strut flange. Refer to Strut and Knuckle Scribing .
  8. Remove the bolts (3) attaching the strut to the steering knuckle.
  9. Important: The steering knuckle must be supported in order to prevent over-extension of the axle joint.

  10. Remove the strut assembly from the vehicle.
  11. Disassemble the strut.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 171135  Size: SH

    Notice: Care should be taken to avoid chipping or scratching the spring couating when handling the front suspension coil spring. Damage to the coating can cause premature failure.

  1. Install the strut (2) into position and install the two nuts (1) and bolt (4) connecting the strut assembly to the body.
  2. Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  3. Align the steering knuckle with the strut flange scribe mark and install the bolts and nuts.
  4. Tighten
    Tighten the nuts to 180 N·m (133 lb ft).

  5. Tighten the nuts and the bolts attaching the top of the strut assembly to the body to specifications.
  6. Tighten

        • Tighten the nuts to 25 N·m (18 lb ft).
        • Tighten the bolt to 25 N·m (18 lb ft).
  7. Install the brake line bracket.
  8. For a suspension contact hoist , use the following procedure:
  9. • Raise the vehicle slightly.
    • Remove the jack stands from under the suspension supports.
  10. Install the tire and the wheel assemblies. Refer to Wheel Installation in Tires and Wheels.
  11. Check the front wheel alignment. Refer to Wheel Alignment Specifications in Wheel Alignment.