Chevrolet 22872083 Front Suspension Strut Assembly

If the struts or coil springs show signs of wear such as leaking fluid, loss of damping capability, chipped, sagging, or cracked coil springs, it is important to explore all options before starting any work. The strut/shock absorber assemblies cannot be serviced and must be replaced if there is a problem. However, there may be strut assemblies available with springs on an exchange basis, which can save time and effort. Before disassembling the vehicle, it is recommended to check the cost and availability of parts. To disassemble, the strut and spring assembly should be removed and mounted in a vise, taking care to protect the unit. A spring compressor should be installed following the manufacturer's instructions to relieve force from the upper spring seat. The damper shaft nut should be loosened and removed, along with the suspension support. The bearing and rubber portion of the suspension support should be inspected and replaced if necessary. The top mount assembly and upper spring seat should be removed, checking for cracking and replacing if needed. The compressed spring should be carefully lifted and set aside. The dust boot and rubber bumper should be removed, and the lower insulator should be checked for wear and replaced if necessary. To reassemble, if the lower insulator is being replaced, it should be set into position with the dropped portion seated properly. The dust boot should be replaced, and the damper rod should be extended and the rubber bumper installed. The coil spring should be placed onto the lower insulator, with the end resting properly. The upper spring seat and top mount should be installed, aligning them correctly. The damper nut should be tightened to the specified torque, and the spring compressor tool can be removed.

The strut/shock absorber assemblies cannot be serviced and must be replaced if there is a problem. However, there may be strut assemblies available with springs on an exchange basis, which can save time and effort.

Install the wheel and lug nuts, then lower the vehicle and tighten the lug nuts to the specified torque.

Slightly raise the outer end of the lower control arm with a floor jack.

Worn or damaged suspension and steering linkage components can result in excessive and abnormal tire wear, poor ride quality and vehicle handling, and reduced fuel economy.

Simply reverse the removal steps and tighten the mounting fasteners to the specified torque.

Visually inspect the steering and suspension components for damage and distortion. Look for damaged seals, boots and bushings and leaks of any kind. Examine the bushings where the control arms meet the chassis.

Guide the strut into position and secure the fasteners to prevent the strut from falling back through. Slide the steering knuckle into the strut flange and insert the two bolts, matching the previously marked position of the strut to the steering knuckle. Tighten the nuts to the specified torque. Reattach the brake hose bracket and stabilizer bar link.