Disassembly/Inspection Compress the damper spring with the commercially available strut compressor (A) according to the manufacturer's instructions, then remove the self-locking nut (B) while holding the damper shaft (C) with a hex wrench (D). Do not compress the spring more than necessary to remove the nut. Release the pressure from the strut spring compressor, then disassemble the damper as shown in the Exploded View. Reassemble all the parts, except for the spring. Compress the damper assembly by hand, and check for smooth operation through a full stroke, both compression and extension. The damper should extend smoothly and constantly when compression is released. If it does not, the gas is leaking and the damper should be replaced. Check for oil leaks, abnormal noises or binding during these tests.

Reassembly Install all the parts except the damper mounting washer and self-locking nut onto the damper unit by referring to the Exploded View. Align the bottom of the spring (A) and the stepped part of the lower spring seat (B) and align the damper mounting base as shown. LEFT RIGHT Install the damper assembly on a commercially available strut spring compressor (C). Compress the damper spring with the spring compressor. Install the washer (A) and a new self-locking nut (B) on the damper shaft. Hold the damper shaft with a hex wrench (C) and tighten the self-locking nut to the specified torque.