Dodge Caliber. Manual - part 17
11. Release the tension from the coil spring by backing off the compressor drive completely. Push back the com-
pressor hooks and remove the coil spring.
12. Inspect the strut assembly components for the fol-
lowing and replace as necessary:
•
Inspect the strut (damper) (8) for shaft binding
over the full stroke of the shaft.
•
Inspect the jounce bumper (with dust shield) (6)
for cracks and signs of deterioration.
•
Check the upper mount (2) for cracks and distor-
tion and its retaining studs for any sign of dam-
age.
•
Check the bearing (3) for any binding.
•
Check the upper spring seat and isolator (4) for
cracks and distortion.
•
Inspect the upper and lower spring isolators (7)
for material deterioration and distortion.
•
Inspect the coil spring (5) for any sign of damage
to the coating.
NOTE: For reassembly, (Refer to 2 - SUSPENSION/FRONT/STRUT - ASSEMBLY).
ASSEMBLY
NOTE: If the coil spring has been removed from the spring compressor, proceed with the next step, other-
wise, proceed with step Step 3.
1. Place the coil spring in the spring compressor following the manufacturers instructions. Before compressing the
spring, rotate the spring so the end of the bottom coil is at approximately the 9 o’clock position as viewed above
(or to where the spring was when removed from the compressor). This action will allow the strut (damper) clevis
bracket to be positioned outward, away from the compressor once installed.
2. Slowly compress the coil spring until enough room is available for strut assembly reassembly.
3. Install the upper spring seat and isolator (4) on top
of the coil spring (5).
4. Install the bearing (3) and upper mount (2) on top
of the upper spring seat and isolator (4).
5. Install the lower spring isolator (7) on the spring
seat on the strut (8).
6. Slide the dust shield and jounce bumper (6) onto
the strut rod.
PM
FRONT SUSPENSION
2 - 33