Genuine Saturn LS1 Shock Absorber

Saturn LS1 Shock Absorber Parts Questions & Answers

• Front Suspension Strut Kit
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  Q: How to disassemble and reassemble a strut and coil spring assembly for Saturn LS and LS1?

  A: When doing this, one must use a spring compressor, which can usually be rented from auto parts stores or equipment yards. If the struts or coil springs seem damaged by leaking fluid, failure to dampen fast enough, or broken coil springs, it is important to consider repair options before proceeding. Problems require replacing strut and coil spring assemblies that cannot be repaired. Full strut assemblies with springs may be available for exchange and will save you time. Before disassembling: part availability and cost should be considered (John 2002). The first step is to remove the strut and spring assembly; however, care should be taken while fastening the strut clevis bracket on a vise so as not to destroy other parts of it using wood or rags. Follow all of the spring's manufacturer's instructions in order to install a spring compressor on it until compressing everything above the upper spring seat completely relieves any pressure. Use a socket wrench to grip the damper shaft and take off the nut from it and also remove the damper shaft itself together with an upper mount. Keep all taken-apart pieces arranged in their proper sequence and inspect rubber part of upper mount for cracks or deterioration-replace if necessary (John 2002). Take away upper spring seal after checking the rubber part for wear and tear and bearing for smooth functioning replacing as required (John 2002). Slip off the bump stop made of rubber from damper shaft and check its condition-replace if necessary (John 2002). Carefully lift out compressed spring from assembly making sure you label springs as LEFT & RIGHT if removing both struts (John 2002). For reassembly: extend damper rod, put on rubber bump stop, drop compressed coil spring onto lower seat of damper making sure end sits against raised stop (John 2002). Put on top insulator; place spring seat; put on top mount; then mount nut, tight to specified torque (John 2002). Finally, take off the spring compressor tool and replace the strut/spring assembly.
• Front Suspension Strut Kit
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  Q: How to replace worn shock absorbers or coil springs for Saturn LS and LS1?

  A: The first thing to do when replacing worn shock absorbers or coil springs is checking for typical signs of wear such as fluid leaks, loss of damping or damaged coil springs. Think about replacement options and check the parts availability. The shock absorber/coil spring assembly should be removed and the pressure on the upper spring seat released by means of a spring compressor. At this stage hold the shock damper shaft in one hand while the retaining nut is removed with the other hand. Other components like upper cup, insulator, top carrier, lower insulator, sleeve, lower cup and bump stop have to be removed as well. If you are replacing the spring, carefully release it from the compressor. Inspect all components for wear and replace as needed. When working with both assemblies, remember to label them left and right springs. The shock should be inspected for fluid leaks, pitting on the damper shaft or damage to the shock body. Its operation has to be tested for smooth uninterrupted resistance. Replace it in case of any found issues. The extended shock damper shaft should have rubber bump stop fitted onto it as well as lower cup, lower insulator and sleeve Install the compressed coil spring on lower seat ensuring that it contacts at its bottom most part Position upper spring seat on top carrier then install top carrier on shock damper shaft with coil spring such that the end of spring fits into upper seat's recessed portion When installing tightened upper insulator upon cup then retain nut Remove the compressing tool finally reinstalling assembly of absorber/shock coil.
• Rear Shock Absorber Kit
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  Q: How to remove and install the rear shock absorber/coil spring assembly for Saturn LS and LS1?

  A: Loosen the rear wheel lug nuts. Chock the front wheels to keep the vehicle from rolling, then raise the rear of the vehicle and support it securely on jackstands. Remove the rear wheels. Remove the rear inner fender splash shield. Remove the shock absorber-to-trailing arm mounting bolt and washer. Support the shock, remove the shock carrier-to-body lower mounting bolts, then loosen the shock carrier-to-body upper mounting bolts and remove the shock. Remove the shock carrier's lower mounting bolts, then loosen the upper mounting bolts and remove the shock absorber/coil spring assembly. Installation is the reverse of removal. Tighten the bolts to the specific torque.
• Front Suspension Strut Kit
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  Q: How to remove and install a front strut on a Saturn LS and LS1?

  A: Loosen the wheel lug nuts, raise the vehicle and support it securely on jackstands. Remove the wheel. Disconnect the stabilizer bar link from the strut, then remove the brake hose from the struts brake hose bracket. On models equipped with ABS, remove the ABS harness from the same bracket. Mark the relationship of the strut to the knuckle(these marks will be used during installation to ensure the camber is returned to its original setting). Remove the strut-to-knuckle nuts and knock the bolts out with a hammer and punch. Separate the strut from the Steering Knuckle. Be careful not to overextend the inner CV joint. Also, don't let the steering knuckle fall outward, as the brake hose could be damaged. Support the strut and spring assembly with one hand and remove the upper mounting nut, then remove the assembly from the fenderwell. Check the strut body for leaking fluid, dents, cracks and other obvious damage that would warrant repair or replacement. Check the coil spring for chips or cracks in the spring coating. Inspect the spring seat for cuts, hardness and general deterioration. If any undesirable conditions exist, proceed to the strut disassembly procedure. Guide the strut assembly up into the fenderwell and insert the upper mounting stud through the hole in the shock tower. Once the stud protrudes from the shock tower, install the nut so the strut won't fall back through. This is most easily accomplished with the help of an assistant, as the strut is quite heavy and awkward. Slide the steering knuckle into the strut flange and insert the two bolts. Install the nuts, align the marks you made, then tighten the nuts to the specific torque. Reattach the brake hose to the strut bracket and reconnect the stabilizer bar link. If equipped, install the speed sensor wiring harness to the strut bracket. Install the wheel and lug nuts, then lower the vehicle and tighten the lug nuts to the specific torque. Tighten the upper mounting nut to the specific torque. Have the front wheel alignment checked and, if necessary, adjusted.