Disassembly Procedure

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

Remove the strut from the vehicle. Refer to Strut Assembly Replacement .
Install the strut (2) in the J 45400 (1).

Fig 1: Installing Strut Spring Compressor
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

IMPORTANT: The spring is compressed when the strut moves freely.
Turn the spring compressed forcing screw (1) until the coil spring (2) is compressed.

Fig 2: Compressing Coil Spring
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Use a 45 TORX® socket in order to hold the strut shaft. Remove the upper strut mount nut by turning with J 42991 .
Remove the strut from the J 45400 .

Fig 3: Removing Upper Strut Mount Nut Using J 45400
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Loosen the compressor forcing screw (1) until the upper strut mount and coil spring (2) may be removed.
Remove the upper strut mount and the coil spring from the J 45400 .

Fig 4: Removing Upper Strut Mount & Coil Spring
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.