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Strut Assembly: Assembly

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
NOTE: Tools Required: Strut Spring Compressor (J-34013-B), Damper Rod Clamp (J-34013-20), Alignment Rod (J-34013-197), Strut Compressor Adapter (J-34013-125), Strut Compressor Lower Adapter (J-34013-971), and Strut Rod Nut Socket (J-42991).
  1. Install the strut to J-34013-B. Use wing nuts in order to secure the tool to the mounting holes. Position the wide end of the adapter outboard. See Figure.
    2. NOTE: Align J-34013-971 and J-34013-125 so that the tools may open and close together. The tools will not open if the tools are not aligned properly. See Figure.
  2. Install J-34013-971 and J-34013-125.
  3. Install the strut to J-34013-971 and J-34013-125.
  4. Close J-34013-971 and J-34013-125.
    5. NOTE: Position the top of the strut flat against J-34013-125. The strut will not align correctly if the strut does not lay flat against the tool.
  5. Install the locking pins through the holes of J-34013-B and the mounting holes of the strut.
  6. Fully extend the strut shaft.
    Fig 1: Extending Strut Shaft
    G00372217Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  7. Attach J-34013-20. This prevents the shaft from retracting during compression.
  8. Install the spring to the strut. Ensure to position the upper and lower spring seats correctly.
    Fig 2: Installing Spring To Strut
    G00372218Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  9. Install all the other components to the strut.
  10. Slowly turn the operating screw counterclockwise in order to compress the spring until the threaded portion of the strut shaft is through the top of the strut. See Figure.
    11. NOTE: Align J-34013-197 straight with the strut. If the J-34013-197 is not aligned, repeat steps  1- 12 until the tool is straight.
  11. Insert J-34013-197 down through the top of J-34013-B and onto the shaft.
    12. WARNING: Do not over compress the spring. Severe overloading may cause tool failure which could result in bodily injury.
    CAUTION: Keep the strut rod in a stationary position when you tighten the strut nut. Turning the strut rod may damage the strut.
  12. Insert a new strut nut on the strut rod.
  13. Place J-42991 on the strut nut. Tighten the strut rod to upper mount to 55 Ft. Lbs. (75 N.m).
  14. Insert a T-45 TORX® through J-34013-197. See Figure.
  15. Tighten the strut nut while holding the shaft with a T-45 TORX®.
  16. Remove the following tools from J-34013-B:
    1. Remove J-34013-20.
    2. Remove J-34013-197.
    3. Remove J-42991.
  17. Remove the strut from J-34013-B.
  18. Install strut to vehicle.
  19. Adjust the rear wheel alignment. See GRAND PRIX .
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