Q: How do I remove and install the strut on my Toyota Sienna?
A: To remove the shock absorber, first, loosen the wheel lug nuts, raise the vehicle and support it securely on jack stands, and remove the wheel and cowl cover. Then, disconnect the stabilizer link and brake hose bracket from the shock absorber, and detach the ABS speed sensor wiring harness. Remove the shock absorber-to-knuckle nuts and separate the shock absorber from the Steering Knuckle. Support the shock absorber and spring assembly and remove the three shock absorber mount-to-shock-tower nuts. To inspect the shock absorber, check for leaking fluid, dents, cracks, and other damage, as well as chips or cracks in the Coil Springs and cuts or deterioration in the spring seat. To install the shock absorber, guide the assembly up into the fender, insert the three upper mounting studs through the holes in the shock tower, and install the nuts. Slide the steering knuckle into the shock absorber Hange and insert the two bolts, then reattach the brake hose bracket, speed sensor wiring harness bracket, and stabilizer link. Install the wheel and lug nuts, lower the vehicle, and tighten the lug nuts and three upper mounting nuts to the proper torque specifications. Finally, check the front wheel alignment and adjust it if necessary.
Q: How do you disassemble the strut and spring assembly on a Toyota Sienna?
A: To disassemble the Shock Absorber and Coil Springs, begin by removing it from the vehicle and mounting it in a vise. Use a spring compressor to relieve pressure from the upper spring seat, ensuring it wiggles freely. Loosen the damper shaft nut and remove the nut and suspension support, inspecting the bearing for smooth operation and the rubber portion for any signs of damage. Take off the upper spring seat and insulator, then carefully lift the compressed spring and set it aside. Slide the rubber bumper off the damper shaft and check the lower insulator for wear. When reassembling, if replacing the lower insulator, position it with the dropped portion seated in the lowest part of the seat and install the rubber bumper. Carefully place the coil spring onto the lower insulator, aligning the flats on the spring seat with those on the damper shaft. Align the markings on the spring upper seat and upper insulator, ensuring the arrow on the spring seat faces the lower bracket. Install the dust seal and suspension support onto the damper shaft, tighten the nut to the specified torque, and remove the spring compressor tool. Finally, install the strut spring assembly back into the vehicle.
Q: How do I replace the rear shock absorbers on my Toyota Sienna?
A: To remove the rear shock absorbers, start by loosening the rear wheel lug nuts and raising the rear of the vehicle on jack stands. Remove the wheels and locate the access cover in the rear quarter panel trim inside the vehicle. Remove the shock absorber lower mounting bolt or nut, as well as the shock absorber upper mounting nut(s). Prepare the new shock absorber by placing the lower retainer and rubber insulator onto the top. Install the upper end of the shock absorber into its mounting hole and push the lower end onto its mounting stud. Tighten the lower mounting bolt or nut, followed by the upper retainers and insulators. Finally, install the access cover, and wheels, and lower the vehicle while tightening the lug nuts.