Disassembly and Assembly: Disassembly

Install Tool (A) to strut and secure it in a vise.
Tool number (A): ST35652000 (-)

CAUTION: When installing Tool, wrap a shop cloth around strut to protect it from damage.

Fig 1: Securing Tool In Vise
Courtesy of NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
Install Tool to strut rod.
Tool number: - (J-49029)
Slightly loosen piston rod lock nut.
WARNING: Do not remove piston rod lock nut completely. If it is removed completely, the coil spring can jump out and may cause serious damage or injury.
Compress coil spring using a commercially available spring compressor.
WARNING: Make sure that the pawls of the two spring compressors are firmly hooked on the spring. The spring compressors must be tightened alternately so as not to tilt the spring.

Fig 2: Compressing Coil Spring Using Commercially Spring Compressor
Courtesy of NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
Making sure coil spring is free between upper and lower seats, then remove piston rod lock nut.
Remove small parts on strut.
- Remove strut spacer, strut mount insulator, strut mounting insulator bracket thrust bearing, spring upper seat, and upper rubber seat. Then remove coil spring.
Remove bound bumper from spring upper seat.
Gradually release spring compressor (commercial service tool), and remove coil spring.