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Disassembly Procedure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu Classic. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove the strut assembly. Refer to Strut Assembly Replacement .

Fig 1: Identifying Special Tool - J 45400 Removing Spring Tension From Upper Strut Mount

GM851627

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Place the strut assembly into the J 45400 . See Special Tools .
Adjust the compressing arms to contact the coils farthest away from the center of the spring.
Using the J 45400 , compress the spring to remove the spring tension from the upper strut mount. See Special Tools .

Fig 2: View Of Strut Shaft Nut

GM851628

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

IMPORTANT: Before removing the strut shaft nut, support the strut to prevent the strut from falling.

Remove the strut shaft nut, while holding the strut shaft.
Lower the strut from the spring and the J 45400 . See Special Tools .

Fig 3: Identifying Upper Strut Mount Assembly And Mount Bearing

GM1235692

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Remove the upper strut mount assembly and mount bearing. Inspect for damage and replace as necessary.

Fig 4: View Of Upper Spring Seat & Insulator

GM851632

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Remove the upper spring seat and insulator from the spring and the J 45400 . See Special Tools . Inspect for damage and replace as necessary.
Using the J 45400 , remove the spring tension in order to remove the spring. See Special Tools . Inspect for damage and replace as necessary.

Fig 5: View Of Lower Spring Seat Insulator

GM851640

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Remove the dust shield and jounce bumper assembly from the strut shaft. Inspect for damage and replace as necessary.
Remove the lower spring seat insulator. Inspect for damage and replace as necessary.