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Strut, Suspension, Assembly: Installation

NOTE:

Installation of the strut assembly is the same for both sides.

GC0159266Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC
  1. Install the strut into the vehicle. When installing the strut, align the slot in the strut mount (2) with the forward hole (1) in the body of the strut tower. 
    NOTE:

    The strut retaining clip must be fully closed and the serrations fully engaged after installation.

    GC0159916Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC
  2. Install the cover (1) and each half of the NEW  upper strut clip (2).
  3. Press each side of the strut clip (2) toward each other to assemble the clip. Make sure that the clip is fully closed and the serrations fully engaged.
  4. Install the strut into the top of the knuckle.
    GC0176898Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC
  5. Install a NEW  strut to knuckle lower retaining bolt and nut (1) and tighten to the proper torque specification. Refer to TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS .
  6. Install the axle into the knuckle.
    GC0176891Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC
  7. Insert a pry bar (1) in the opening between the control arm front mounting bolt and the front fascia support beam.
  8. Pry down the control arm (2) until the ball joint stud is clear of the control arm, align the stud with hole in control arm then slowly release the control arm.
    GC0176909Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC
  9. Install a NEW  lower ball joint nut (1) and tighten to the proper torque specification. Refer to TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS .
  10. Install the outer tie rod end into the knuckle. Refer to TIE ROD, STEERING, INSTALLATION .
  11. Install the stabilizer bar link. Refer to LINK, STABILIZER BAR, INSTALLATION .
    GC0159258Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC
  12. Install the wheel speed sensor (1) and connect the harness to the strut.
  13. Tighten the front wheel speed sensor bolt (2) to the proper torque specification. Refer to TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS .
  14. Install the front brake rotor and caliper assembly. Refer to ROTOR, BRAKE, INSTALLATION .
  15. Install a NEW  hub nut and while a helper applies the brakes, tighten the nut to the proper torque specification. Refer to TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS .
    NOTE:

    Always install a NEW hub nut. The original hub nut is one-time use only and must be discarded when removed. 

    GC0152775Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC
  16. Stake the hub nut. Using (special tool #10287, Tool, Front Hub Staking) align the leading cutting edge of tool with the top left side channel on axle. Tighten fastener on staking tool with hand tools until the threads bottom out completely.
    NOTE:

    Do not use air tools on staking tool while staking hub nut. 

    NOTE:

    The hub nut (1) must be staked as shown in the illustration for correct hub nut staking. Both edges must be split and bent into the shape shown in the illustration (3). The staking must be in the opposite direction from the forward rotation of the wheel. 

    NOTE:

    Do not stake the hub nut as shown in the illustration (2). 

  17. Install wheel and tire assembly. Refer to TIRE & WHEEL, INSTALLATION .
  18. Remove the support and lower the vehicle.