GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

Tools Required

    • J 3289-20 Holding Fixture
    • J 34013-B Strut Compressor
    • J 34013-20 Dampener Rod Clamp
    • J 34013-27 Alignment Rod

    Object Number: 143999  Size: SH

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

  1. Mount the J 34013-B in the J 3289-20 .
  2. Mount the strut into the J 3289-20 . Ensure that the J 34013-B has the strut mounting holes drilled for a specific car line.
  3. Compress the strut approximately ½ of the height of the strut after the initial contact with the cap. Do not bottom the spring or dampen the rod.

  4. Object Number: 175813  Size: SH
  5. Remove the nut (2) from the strut dampener shaft.
  6. Place the J 34013-27 on top of the dampener shaft.
  7. Use this rod to guide the dampener shaft straight down through the bearing cap while decompressing the spring.


    Object Number: 174649  Size: SH
  8. Remove the following components from the strut:
  9. • The cap (1)
    • The strut mount nut (2)
    • The strut mount bearing (3)
    • The upper spring insulator (4)
    • The strut dust shield (9)
    • The jounce bumper (8)
    • The strut coil spring (5)
    • The lower spring insulator (6)

Installation Procedure

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

  1. Install the bearing cap if it has been previously removed.

  2. Object Number: 143999  Size: SH
  3. Mount the strut into the J 34013-B using the bottom locking pin only.
  4. Extend dampener shaft and install the J 34013-20 on the dampener shaft.
  5. Install the spring over the dampener.

  6. Object Number: 144008  Size: SH
  7. Swing the strut assembly (1) up and install the upper locking pin (2).

  8. Object Number: 174649  Size: SH
  9. Install the following components; face the spring seat flat in the same direction as the centerline of the strut assembly spindle:
  10. • The upper insulator (4)
    • The dust shield (9)
    •  The bumper (8)
    • The upper spring seat
  11. Install the J 34013-27 .
  12. Turn the forcing screw while the J 34013-27 centers the assembly.
  13. When the threads on the dampener shaft are visible, remove the J 34013-27 and install the nut (2).

  14. Object Number: 175813  Size: SH

    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.

  15. Use a line wrench (1) while holding the dampener shaft with the socket  (2), in order to tighten the nut.
  16. Tighten
    Tighten to 75 N·m (55 lb ft).


    Object Number: 144008  Size: SH
  17. Remove the J 34013-20 .