Assembly Procedure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2007 Saturn Ion Red Line, 2007 Saturn Ion 3, and 2007 Saturn Ion 2. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Fig 1: Compressing Spring

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Install the spring into the J 45400 . See Special Tools . Make sure the spring is level.
Use the J 45400 to compress the spring evenly. See Special Tools .

Fig 2: View Of Lower Spring Seat Insulator

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Install the lower spring seat insulator.
Extend the strut shaft to the upper limit of its travel.
Insert the jounce bumper into the dust shield.
Slide the dust shield assembly onto the strut shaft.
Load the strut through the coil spring and the J 45400 . See Special Tools .

Fig 3: Aligning Lower Spring Coil In Spring Seat Pocket

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Firmly align the lower spring coil in the spring seat pocket.
Place the upper spring insulator and spring seat onto the top of the coil spring.

Fig 4: View Of Upper Strut Mount Assembly & Mount Bearing

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Place the bearing and strut mount on the top of the spring seat.

Fig 5: View Of Strut Shaft Nut

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

NOTE: Refer to Fastener Notice .

Install the upper strut shaft nut.
Tighten: Tighten the nut to 70 N.m (52 lb ft).
Using the J 45400 , remove the spring tension. See Special Tools .
Remove the strut assembly from the J 45400 . See Special Tools .

Fig 6: View Of Strut Cap

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Install the upper strut cap.
Tighten: Tighten the cap screws to 14 N.m (124 lb in).
Install the strut assembly. Refer to Strut Assembly Replacement .