Forester AWD F4-2.5L DOHC (1998)
Dust Cover
If any cracks or damage are found, replace it with new one.
Coil Spring
When vehicle posture is uneven, although there are no considerable reasons like tire puncture, uneven loading, etc., check coil spring and spring
seats for cracks, deformation, etc., and replace it with a new one if defective.
Helper
Replace it with new one if cracked or damaged.
ASSEMBLY
1. Before installing coil spring, strut mount, etc., on the strut, check for the presence of air in the dampening force generating mechanism of the strut
since air prevents proper dampening force from being produced.
2. Checking for the presence of air:
(1) Place the strut vertically with the piston rod facing upward.
(2) Move the piston rod to the center of its entire stroke.
(3) While holding the piston rod end with fingertips, move the rod up and down.
(4) If the piston rod moves at least 10 mm (0.39 inch) in former step, purge air from the strut.
3. Air purging procedure
(1) Place the strut vertically with the piston rod facing upward.
(2) Fully extend the piston rod.
(3) With the piston rod fully extended, place the piston rod side down. The strut must stand vertically.
(4) Fully contract the piston rod.
(5) Repeat 3 or 4 times from first step.
NOTE: After completely purging air from the strut, be sure to place the strut with the piston rod facing upward. If it is laid down, check for entry
of air in the strut as outlined under "Checking for the presence of air".
4. Using a coil spring compressor, compress the coil spring.
NOTE: Make sure that the vertical installing direction of coil spring is as shown in figure.
5. Set the coil spring correctly so that its end face fits well into the spring seat as shown.
6. Install helper and dust cover to the piston rod.
7. Pull the piston rod fully upward, and install rubber seat and spring seat.