Cutlass L4-138 2.3L VIN A FI HP (1990)
Strut Cartridge: Service and Repair
Do not service strut unless weight of vehicle is on suspension.
REMOVAL
1.
Scribe alignment marks on cover plate, remove cover plate retaining nuts, then the cover plate.
2.
Using No. 50 Torx bit and strut rod remover/installer tool No. J-35669, or equivalents, remove strut shaft.
3.
Remove strut mount bushing by prying with suitable tool.
4.
Using strut mount plate wrench tool No. J-35670 or equivalent, remove jounce bumper retainer.
5.
Attach strut extension rod tool No. J-35668 or equivalent to strut shaft and compress shaft down into cartridge, then remove tool and pull out
jounce bumper.
6.
Attach strut extension rod tool No. J-35668 or equivalent to strut shaft and extend shaft, then remove tool and, using strut cap nut wrench tool No.
J-35671 or equivalent, unscrew closure nut.
7.
Remove strut cartridge.
8.
Remove oil from strut tube using suction device.
INSTALLATION
1.
Using strut cap nut wrench tool No. J-35671 or equivalent, install self contained replacement cartridge.
2.
Install jounce bumper, then using strut mount plate wrench tool No. J-35670 or equivalent, the jounce bumper retainer.
3.
Install strut mount bushing. If necessary, use strut extension rod tool No. J-35668 or equivalent after bushing is partially installed and position strut
shaft as required. Lubricate bushing with a soap solution to ease installation.
4.
Using No. 50 Torx bit and strut rod remover/installer tool No. J-35669, or equivalents, install strut shaft nut, torquing to specifications.
5.
Install strut mount cover, aligning scribe marks. Torque cover plate nuts to specifications.
