Installation Procedure

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

Fig 1: Upper Mount Assembly, Strut Dust Shield, Strut Shaft & Spring

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Extend the strut to its limit of travel.
Install the hollow bumper and dust boot to the strut shaft.

Fig 2: Strut & Spring Assembly

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

With the spring in the compressor, install the strut into the spring.
Assemble the upper spring seat onto the strut shaft and align the flat with the strut to knuckle mounting bracket.
Assemble the top mount onto the strut shaft and align the flat 180 degrees from flat on the upper spring seat.

Fig 3: Strut Shaft & Nut

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Loosely install the strut shaft nut.

NOTE: Refer to FASTENER NOTICE in Cautions and Notices.

Hold the strut shaft and tighten the shaft nut while verifying that the upper spring seat flats align with the top mount.
Tighten: Tighten the strut shaft nut to 75 N.m (55 lb ft).

Fig 4: Strut Assembly & J 45400

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Release the tension on the J 45400 . See Special Tools .
Remove the strut assembly from the J 45400 . See Special Tools .