Disassembly And Assembly: Disassembly

CAUTION:

Do not damage the piston rod when removing components from the front coil spring and strut.

Install Tool (A) to the front coil spring and strut.

Fig 1: Shock Absorber Attachment
Courtesy of NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.

CAUTION:
When installing Tool (A), wrap a shop cloth around the front coil spring and strut to protect the parts from damage.

Tool number (A) : ST35652000 (-)
Secure Tool (A) in a vise.
Slightly loosen the piston rod lock nut.
WARNING:
Do not remove the piston rod lock nut completely. If the piston rod lock nut is removed completely, the coil spring can jump out and may cause serious damage or injury.
Compress the coil spring using a suitable tool (A).

Fig 2: Compressing Coil Spring Between Spring Upper Seat And Lower Seat Using Spring Compressor
Courtesy of NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.

WARNING:
Make sure that the pawls of the suitable tool are firmly hooked on the coil spring. The suitable tool must be tightened alternately so as to not tilt the coil spring.
Make sure the coil spring is free between the strut mount insulator and the lower rubber seat.
Hold the piston rod and remove the piston rod lock nut.
Remove the strut mount insulator, the strut mount bearing, and the bound bumper from the strut.
Gradually release the suitable tool and remove the coil spring.
CAUTION:
Release the suitable tool while making sure the position of the suitable tool on the coil spring does not move.
Remove the lower rubber seat.
Inspect the components. Refer to INSPECTION .