Genuine Chevrolet Impala Shock Absorber

Chevrolet Impala Shock Absorber Parts Questions & Answers

• Front Suspension Strut Assembly
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  Q: How do you remove the front strut from Chevrolet Impala and Monte Carlo?

  A: To remove the strut, start by loosening the wheel lug nuts and raising the front of the vehicle on jackstands. Mark the relationship of the strut to the knuckle for installation reference. Remove the strut-to-knuckle nuts and bolts, being careful not to damage the brake hose or overextend the inner CV joint. Support the strut and spring assembly while removing the upper mounting nuts, then remove the assembly from the fender well. To inspect the strut, check for leaking fluid, dents, cracks, and other damage. Inspect the coil spring for chips or cracks in the coating and the spring seat for cuts or deterioration. If any issues are found, proceed to the strut disassembly procedure. For installation, guide the strut assembly back into the fender well, aligning the index mark made earlier. Insert the upper mounting studs through the holes in the strut tower and secure with nuts. Slide the Steering Knuckle into the strut flange and install the bolts and nuts, aligning the marks. Install the wheel, lower the vehicle, and tighten the lug nuts. Finally, tighten the upper mounting nuts, have the front wheel alignment checked, and make any necessary adjustments.
• Rear Suspension Strut Assembly
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  Q: How to disassemble and reassemble a strut and coil spring assembly?

  A: If the struts or coil springs show signs of wear, they must be replaced as they can't be serviced. Before starting, check the cost and availability of parts. To disassemble, remove the strut and spring assembly and mount the strut clevis bracket in a vise. Use a spring compressor to relieve pressure from the upper spring seat. Unscrew the damper shaft nut, remove the nut and upper mount, and check the rubber portion for cracking. Remove the upper spring seat from the damper shaft and inspect the rubber portion and bearing. Check the dust boot and rubber bump stop for cracking and replace if needed. Remove the compressed spring. To reassemble, extend the damper rod and install the rubber bump stop and dust boot. Place the compressed coil spring onto the lower seat of the damper, install the upper insulator and spring seat, followed by the upper mount and mounting nut. Tighten to the proper torque specifications, remove the spring compressor tool, and install the strut spring assembly.
• Rear Suspension Strut Assembly
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  Q: How do I remove a rear strut?

  A: To remove the strut, start by moving the side trim in the trunk compartment to expose the strut upper mounting fasteners. Loosen the mounting fasteners without removing them and pull off the rubber cap on top of the strut if it is equipped. Loosen the rear wheel lug nuts, block the front wheels, and raise the rear of the vehicle on jackstands. Remove the rear wheels and detach the stabilizer bar link from the strut. Mark the relationship of the strut to the knuckle for reference during installation. Remove the strut-to-knuckle nuts by holding the oval-shaped bolt heads with a wrench and striking the end with a hammer to push them out of the knuckle and strut. Separate the strut from the rear knuckle, remove the upper mounting nuts, and secure the rear knuckle to prevent damage. To inspect the strut, check for leaking fluid, dents, cracks, and other damage. Inspect the coil spring for chips or cracks in the coating and the spring seat for cuts and deterioration. If any issues are found, proceed to the strut disassembly procedure. To install the strut, guide the knuckle into the strut range and position the upper part of the strut to mount it to the body. Install the upper mounting nuts finger-tight and use a soft-face hammer or mallet to install the bolts. Align the marks and tighten the nuts to the proper torque specifications. Install the stabilizer bar link, wheel, and lug nuts. Lower the vehicle and tighten the lug nuts to the correct torque specifications. Finally, tighten the upper mounting nuts and have the wheel alignment checked and adjusted if necessary.