OTC Tools 6494 - Operating Instructions; Removal Procedure; Spring Replacement Process; Installation and Final Steps

© 2002 SPX
Sheet No.
Issue Date: Rev. D, March 28, 2012
Parts List & Operating Instructions Form No. 107300
2 of 2
Figure 1
3/4 in. Hex
Hook
Hook
Retaining
Pins
Operating Instructions
Removal
CAUTION: To prevent equipment damage, keep
the actuating screw well lubricated.
1. Refer to the vehicle service manual, and follow
the manufacturer's recommended procedure to
remove the MacPherson strut assembly from the
vehicle.
2. Clamp the strut assembly in a vise.
3. Mark the spring in relation to the lower platform
and top mount. This notes the correct position for
installation.
4. Place two hooks around a coil as close to the top
of the spring as possible. Note: The 3/4 in. hex
on the forcing screw should be up. Place the
other two hooks as close to the bottom of the
spring as possible. Push in the four retaining pins.
See Figure 1.
5. Using an impact wrench, or ratchet, with a 3/4 in.
socket on the actuating screw, compress the spring
only until it is loose in the spring mount.
WARNING: DO NOT EXCEED 30 FT-LBS OF TORQUE ON THE ACTUATING SCREW. Compressing the spring
too far will cause premature tool failure that can result in severe personal injury. Compress the spring only until
it is loose in the spring mount.
6. Remove the piston rod nut. Carefully store the tool and spring assembly in a place where it cannot roll off a bench or
be dropped.
7. Remove the old strut. Compare the old strut with the new one to be sure you are installing the correct strut. Dispose
of the old strut.
Spring Replacement
1. Place the tool and spring assembly on a workbench. Using a ratchet or impact wrench, SLOWLY and carefully
decompress the spring.
2. Remove the old spring from the strut tool. Install the new spring in the tool so that a maximum number of coils can
be grabbed by the tool without interfering with the spring tip placement in the mounting plates.
3. Compress the spring, and follow the instructions for Installation.
Installation
1. Position the compressed spring assembly back in place. Align the lower spring tip in its receptacle in the lower
platform.
2. Replace the top mount.
3. Attachthepistonrodnut,andtorqueittothespecicationslistedinthevehicleservicemanual.
4. Check the alignment of both spring coil tips to the mounting platforms. Decompress the spring.
5. Refer to the vehicle service manual, and follow the manufacturer's recommended procedure to reinstall the MacPherson
strut assembly.