Removing the coil spring from the damper assembly is potentially hazardous and should only be done using a good quality special tool.
Disassembly
1. Remove the rack assembly from the vehicle (see Section Shock absorber/coil spring replacement strut assembly or Removal, condition check and installation of racks of a back suspension bracket). Clamp the shock absorber assembly in a soft-jawed vise (not too hard).
2. Following the manufacturers instructions, install the coil spring compression tool. While tightening the nuts on the tool studs, compress the spring enough to fully relieve the top support base.
3. Give a nut of a rod of the shock-absorber.
4. Remove the upper strut mount from the shock absorber piston rod. Check the freedom of rotation of the bearing, if necessary, replace the support. Assess the condition of the rubber parts, in case of signs of destruction of the material, replace the defective elements.
5. Remove the upper spring seat from the shock absorber rod, evaluate the condition of its rubber pad, replace if necessary. Remove the top seat rubber pad from the stem.
6. Carefully remove the compressed coil spring from the shock absorber and move it to a safe place.
Attention! Try not to turn the compressed spring ends towards you!
7. Remove the rubber protective boot from the shock absorber rod.
8. Assess the condition of the lower rubber cushion, if necessary, replace it.
Assembly
1. When replacing the lower spring seat rubber pad, make sure it is seated with the notched side facing the seat. Pull the shock absorber rod out to its full length and put a rubber protective boot on it.
2. Gently seat the compressed coil spring into your lower seat. Make sure that the end of the spring bar hits the maximum lowered part of the pillow.
3. Install the top rubber pad and top spring seat onto the assembly. Make sure that the saddle is turned with a cutout outward from the diametrical plane of the car.
4. Place the dust boot and the upper strut support on the shock absorber rod.
5. Screw on the nut and tighten it to the required torque. Remove the coil spring compressor.
6. Install the assembled rack in its regular place (see Section Shock absorber/coil spring replacement strut assembly or Removal, condition check and installation of racks of a back suspension bracket).