Strut, Suspension, Assembly: Disassembly

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For the disassembly and assembly of the strut assembly, use Mopar Service Equipment 223-7600 (strut spring compressor) or the equivalent, to compress the coil spring. Follow the manufacturer's instructions closely.

1. Remove the strut assembly. The strut assembly must be removed from the vehicle for disassembly and assembly. Refer to STRUT, SUSPENSION, ASSEMBLY, REMOVAL .
2. If both struts are being serviced at the same time, mark both the coil spring and strut assemblies during removal as RH and LH for correct assembly.
3. Mark the end of the coil spring on the lower spring seat. This is for the correct coil spring position during assembly.

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4. Position the strut assembly (1) in the strut coil spring compressor (2). Follow the manufacturer's instructions and set the lower and upper hooks of the compressor on the coil spring. Position the strut clevis bracket straight and outward, away from the compressor.

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5. Compress the coil spring until all coil spring tension is removed from the upper mount and bearing. Once the spring is sufficiently compressed, install the Strut Nut Wrench (1) on the strut rod nut. Next, install a hex head wrench (2) into the strut rod internal hex. While holding the strut rod from turning, remove the strut rod nut using the strut nut wrench (3). (special tool #9362, Wrench, Strut Nut)
   CAUTION:

   Never use impact or high speed tools to remove the strut rod nut. Damage to the strut internal bearings can occur.

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6. Remove the clamp (1) (if installed) from the bottom of the coil spring and remove the strut (damper) out through the bottom of the coil spring.
7. Remove the lower spring isolator from the strut seat.
8. Remove the dust shield.

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9. Remove the upper strut mount (1) from the top of the bearing and upper spring seat.
   CAUTION:

   Use caution when removing the upper strut mounts: The strut mount bearing shells can separate when removing the strut, causing it to be inoperable and destroying the mount. When removing the strut, use a pry bar and gently pry between the cellular spring seat and the coil spring to assure that the two components are loose prior to removing the strut mount

10. Remove the upper spring seat and isolator from the top of the coil spring.
11. Release the tension from the coil spring. Push back the compressor hooks and remove the coil spring.
12. Inspect the strut assembly components for the following conditions. Install new components as necessary:

• Inspect the strut (damper) for shaft binding over the full stroke of the shaft.
• Inspect the jounce bumper for cracks and signs of deterioration.
• Inspect the dust shield for cracks and tears.
• Check the upper mount for cracks and distortion and its retaining studs for any sign of damage.
• Check the bearing and upper spring seat for any binding.
• Inspect the upper and lower spring isolators for material deterioration and distortion.
• Inspect the coil spring for any sign of damage to the coating.