GM 20794270
Strut, Front Passenger Side

The high-pressure gas inside gas charged shock absorbers requires that you maintain the snap ring in its position since removing it produces dangerous eruption of contents that can cause severe injuries. Put on safety glasses when performing shock absorber centerpunching and drilling procedures to avoid both shock absorber tube puncture and personal injury. Use a centerpunch to create an indentation which should be located 10 mm (0.4 inch) from the tube's bottom. A vise should position the shock absorber horizontally while its shock absorber rod extends fully. The 5 mm (3/16 inch) drill bit chisels through the centerpunch while a clamp catches the escaping gas or gas/oil mix; shop towels control the oil discharge. After drilling the first hole through the tube's centerpunch position a second hole needs to be prepared at the same centerpunch point with the identical drill bit for oil release. Protect from leaking oil by using shop towels similar to earlier usage. Complete the oil drain by moving the rod inside the tube through the holes which face downwards while the shock absorber rests above a drain pan.

Remove the strut lower bolts, nuts, and the antilock brake system (ABS) wiring bracket if equipped, and take out the strut.

Take out the front suspension strut from the vehicle.

Begin by removing the strut upper mounting nuts.

Take off the front suspension strut mounting nut on the front suspension strut stud and raise the vehicle further to access the lower front suspension strut bolts.

Use a 45 TORX(R) socket to hold the strut shaft and a strut rod socket or equivalent to install the upper strut mount nut, tightening it to 70 Nm (52 lb ft).