Look under the hood for any leakages, loss of damping ability or any form of physical damage on the struts or coil springs before a job is done because these units are non-serviceable and have to be replaced once there is a problem. While strut assemblies with springs commonly are used, these parts may be ordered on an exchange basis, which is convenient. So before getting into the process of dismantling the vehicle, get to know the prices of Body parts and if they are easily available. To disassemble, the Strut assembly or rear shock absorber/coil spring assembly is removed and then mounted on a vise-the jaws of which are covered with wood or rags not to pinch the absorber/spring. After using a tool manufacturer's instruction place a spring compressor over the upper spring seat and get a confirmation when the pressure from the spring is relieved by jiggling the spring. Locate the position of the upper and lower spring seat and suspension support bracket, and then remove the damper shaft nut, and lock it if needed. Take out the nut and suspension support, it is necessary that you turn the bearing and observe its condition and check the rubber part of the support for signs of wearing. Raise the spring seat together with the upper insulator off the shaft of the damper and inspect the rubber spring seat for signs of wear. It is advisable to have the ends of the compressed spring facing your body's direction; then ease it off the assembly and place it aside securely. Next, slide the rubber bumper off the damper shaft and look at the condition of the lower insulator to see if it needs to be replaced. For reassembly, if replacing the lower insulator, insert it on the location and fitting, extend the damper rod to placing the rubber bumper. Position the coil spring on the lower insulator with the end slot of it devoted to the recessed part. Next screw in the upper insulator followed by the spring seat by ensuring that the flats on the damper shaft fit into the corresponding ones in the spring seat. Install the dust seal and suspension support so that their marks are the same when aligned and bolt the suspension support to the frame using a new nut and tighten. Last, either reinstall the strut assembly/ or the rear shock absorber and coil spring in the same manner as described above.
