Disassembly and Assembly: Disassembly

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Nissan Murano. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: Make sure piston rod on strut is not damaged when removing components from strut assembly.

Install strut attachment (SST) to strut and fix it in a vise.
CAUTION: When installing strut attachment (SST) to strut, wrap a shop cloth around strut to protect it from damage.

Fig 1: Installing Strut Attachment (SST) To Strut And Fix It In Vise
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
Using a spring compressor (commercial service tool), compress coil spring between spring upper seat and spring lower seat (on strut) until coil spring is free.
CAUTION: Be sure spring compressor (commercial service tool) is securely attached to coil spring. Compress coil spring.

Fig 2: Using Spring Compressor (Commercial Service Tool), Compress Coil Spring
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
Make sure coil spring between spring upper seat and spring lower seat is free and then secure piston rod tip so that piston rod does not turn, and remove piston rod lock nut.

Fig 3: Removing Piston Rod Lock Nut
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
Remove upper mounting plate, mounting insulator, mounting insulator bracket, mounting bearing, spring upper rubber seat coil spring, spring lower rubber seat from strut.
Gradually release spring compressor (commercial service tool), and remove coil spring.
CAUTION: Loosen while making sure coil spring attachment position does not move.
Remove bound bumper from spring upper seat.
Remove strut attachment (special service tool) from strut.