GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Chevrolet 🢒 2000 🢒 Cavalier 🢒 Suspension 🢒 Front Suspension 🢒 Strut Assembly Replacement

Removal Procedure

    Object Number: 174598 Size: SH
  1. Remove the nuts (1) and the bolt (2) attaching the top of the strut assembly (5) to the body (3).
  2. Raise and suitably support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  3. Place a jackstand under the crossmember.
  4. Lower the vehicle slightly so that the weight of the vehicle rests on the jack stand and on the control arms.
  5. Remove the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
  6. Remove the brake line bracket.
  7. Scribe the strut flange. Refer to Strut and Knuckle Scribing .

    8. Object Number: 491774 Size: SH

    Important: The steering knuckle must be supported to prevent an axle joint over-extension.

  8. Remove the bolts (3) and the nuts (6) that attach the strut (2) to the steering knuckle (4).
  9. Remove the strut assembly (2) from the vehicle.

Installation Procedure

    Object Number: 491774 Size: SH
  1. Install the strut assembly (2) to the vehicle.

    2. Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  2. Install the bolts (3) and the nuts (6) attaching the strut (2) to the steering knuckle (4).

    3. Tighten
    Tighten the bolts to 180 N·m (133 lb ft).

  3. Install the brake line bracket.
  4. Lower the vehicle.

    5. Object Number: 174598 Size: SH
  5. Install the nuts (1) and the bolt (2) that attach the top of the strut assembly (5) to the body (3).

    6. Tighten
    Tighten the nuts and the bolt to 25 N·m (18 lb ft).

  6. Install the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
  7. Inspect the front wheel alignment. Refer to Wheel Alignment Measurement in Wheel Alignment.