Topaz V6-182 3.0L (1992)
Suspension Strut / Shock Absorber: Service and Repair
Strut
1. Raise and support vehicle, then remove tire and wheel assembly.
2. Loosen but do not remove, two top mount-to-shock tower nuts.
3. Remove brake hose retaining bracket from strut.
4. Remove strut-to-knuckle pinch bolt, then using a large screwdriver, slightly spread pinch joint.
5. Using a suitable pry bar, place top of bar under fender apron and pry down on knuckle until strut separates from knuckle.
NOTE: Be careful not to pinch brake flex line.
6. Remove two top mount-to-shock tower nuts, then strut from vehicle.
7. Install spring compressor in bench mount.
8. Compress spring with Rotunda spring compressor (tool No. 086-00029) or equivalent.
9. Place 18 mm deep socket tool No. D81P-18045-A1 or equivalent on strut shaft nut. Insert an 8 mm hex deep socket with 1/4-inch drive wrench.
Remove top shaft mounting nut from shaft while holding 1/4 inch drive socket with a suitable extension.
CAUTION: Do not attempt to remove shaft nut by turning shaft and holding nut. The nut must be turned and the shaft held to avoid possible
damage to shaft.
10. Loosen spring compressor tool, then remove top mount bracket assembly, bearing insulator and spring.
11. reverse procedure to install. Torque strut shaft nut to 35-50 ft lb. Install new steering knuckle pinch nut and torque to specifications. Torque two
top mount attaching nuts to specifications.