GM 22064776
Strut, Front

The snap ring inside the gas charged shock absorber top tube contains high pressure gas which will cause dangerous expansion when removed. Therefore you should not touch or remove this snap ring to prevent potential injuries. Wear protective safety glasses during the drilling process because centerpunching then drilling the shock absorber requires you to avoid damaging the shock absorber tube. Place the centerpunch 10 mm (0.4 inch) below the shock absorber tube bottom to initiate the starting point. Arrange the shock absorber in a vise while having its rod fully stretched horizontally. Drill at the centerpunched location through the shock absorber tube using a 5 mm (3/16 inch) drill bit to exhaust either gas or gas/oil mixture where shop towels must stop the oil leak. Make another indentation at the centerpunch location in the middle of the tube before drilling the second hole through this mark with the 5 mm (3/16 inch) drill bit to allow the oil to drain while keeping the fluid contained with shop towels. After taking the shock absorber out of the vise position the drain pan under it horizontally by placing the holes towards the bottom. Then move the rod through the tube to completely empty the oil from the shock absorber.

Install the shock absorber back into the vehicle, following the fastener notice in service precautions.

Reinstall the tire and wheel and return the rear compartment carpet to its original position.

Remove the shock absorber upper mounting bolts.

Raise the vehicle on a hoist and remove the tire and wheel.

Install the tire and wheel and replace the rear compartment carpet to its original position.

Remove the strut assembly and mount the Strut Spring Compressor (J 34013-B) into the Holding Fixture Bench Mount (J 3289-20).