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 Front Coil Spring And Strut Into Vise
Courtesy of NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
Install suitable tool to strut rod.
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 suitable tool.
WARNING: Make sure that the pawls of the suitable tool are firmly hooked on the spring. The suitable tool must be tightened alternately so as not to tilt the spring tools.

Fig 2: Compressing Coil Spring Using Tool
Courtesy of NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
Make 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 suitable tool and remove coil spring.