GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Disassemble Procedure

Tools Required

    • J 34013-88 Lower Strut Spring Compressor Adapter
    • J 34013-B Strut Spring Compressor
    • J 3289-20 Strut Compressor Holding Fixture

    Object Number: 143233  Size: SH
  1. Remove the strut from the vehicle. Refer to Strut Assembly Replacement
  2. Place strut assembly in the J 34013-A Strut Compressor with adapter J 34013-88 .

  3. Object Number: 143230  Size: SH
  4. Compress the spring.
  5. Remove the upper bearing support nut (3).
  6. Counter-hold the strut piston if necessary.

  7. Remove the bearing and plate assembly (4).
  8. Decompress the spring.
  9. Disassemble the following components:
  10. • Remove the upper spring support plate (5).
    • Remove the upper insulator (6).
    • Remove the strut bumper (7).
    • Remove the strut cover from the strut (8).
  11. Remove the spring (11) from the strut (9).
  12. Remove the lower insulator from the strut (10).

Assembly Procedure

Notice: Care should be taken to avoid chipping or scratching the coating when handling the suspension coil spring. Damage to the coating can cause premature failure.


    Object Number: 143230  Size: SH
  1. Install lower insulator to the strut (10).
  2. Install the spring (11) to the strut (9).
  3. Assemble the following components:
  4. • Install the upper spring support plate (5).
    • Install the upper insulator (6).
    • Install the strut bumper (7).
    • Install the strut cover to the strut (8).
  5. Position the spring within the upper and within the lower rubber isolation rings.
  6. Compress the spring (11).
  7. Install the bearing and plate assembly (4).
  8. Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  9. Install the upper bearing support nut (3).
  10. Tighten
    Tighten the upper bearing support nut to 70 N·m (52 lb ft.)

    Release the spring tension from the spring compressor.


    Object Number: 143233  Size: SH
  11. Remove the strut assembly from the J 34013-B . Check that the spring is properly positioned between the insulators.
  12. Install strut to vehicle. Refer to Strut Assembly Replacement