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Front Suspension System Buick Enclave I

Suspension Front 8 illustrations ~3069 words

Fastener Tightening Specifications

ApplicationSpecification
MetricEnglish
Ball Joint to Lower Control Arm Mounting Nuts and Bolts68 N.m50 lb ft
Front Frame Reinforcement Mounting Bolts50 N.m37 lb ft
Front Frame to Body Bolts
First Pass100 N.m74 lb ft
Final Pass+ 90°
Front Wheel Bearing and Hub to Knuckle Bolts120 N.m89 lb ft
Front Lower Control Arm Front Nut195 N.m144 lb ft
Front Lower Control Arm Bushings Nuts75 N.m55 lb ft
Front Lower Control Arm Bushing Rear Nut150 N.m111 lb ft
Lower Control Arm Ball Stud Nuts
First Pass40 N.m30 lb ft
Final Pass+ 90°
Stabilizer Link to Stabilizer Shaft Nuts75 N.m55 lb ft
Stabilizer Link to Strut Nuts72 N.m52 lb ft
Stabilizer Shaft Clamp to Frame Bolts50 N.m37 lb ft
Steering Knuckle to Strut Bolts195 N.m144 lb ft
Strut Mount Nut85 N.m63 lb ft
Strut to Body Mounting Nuts45 N.m33 lb ft
Upper Strut to Bearing Plate Nuts83 N.m61 lb ft

Fastener Tightening Specifications

Adhesives, Fluids, Lubricants, and Sealers

ApplicationType of MaterialGM Part NumberCanadian Part Number
Strut Rod/Jounce BumperLubricant (Dielectric Silicone)1234557910953481

Adhesives, Fluids, Lubricants, and Sealers

Removal Procedure

  1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to «Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/ignition-switchsteering-lock/#general-information__lifting-and-jacking-the-vehicle) .
  2. Remove the front tire and wheel assemblies. Refer to «Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/wheel-tire-system/#tires-and-wheels__tire-and-wheel-removal-and-installation) .
  3. Remove the bolt from the intermediate shaft bracket to the front cradle. Refer to «Front Wheel Drive Intermediate Shaft Replacement»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/axle-shafts/#wheel-drive-shafts) .
  4. Remove the rear propeller shaft, if equipped. Refer to «Propeller Shaft Replacement»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/driveshaft-universal-joints/#propeller-shaft) .
  5. Disconnect the outer tie rods from the steering knuckles. Refer to «Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Replacement»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/manual-power-steering/#power-steering-system__steering-linkage-outer-tie-rod-replacement) .
  6. Disconnect the stabilizer shaft links from the stabilizer shaft. Refer to «Stabilizer Shaft Link Replacement»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system) .
  7. Position an adjustable jack stand underneath the left rear and right rear of the front frame.
  8. Remove the left and right frame reinforcement mounting bolts.
  9. Loosen the front frame reinforcement mounting bolts (1).
  10. Loosen the front frame mounting bolts (2).
  11. Loosen the front frame rear mounting bolts (1).
  12. Lower the front frame (1) from the frame rail (2) until enough clearance is gained to remove the stabilizer shaft.
  13. Remove both left and right stabilizer shaft insulators. Refer to «Stabilizer Shaft Insulator Replacement»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system) .
  14. Remove the stabilizer shaft from the vehicle.

Installation Procedure

  1. Position the stabilizer shaft on the front frame.
  2. Install the left and right stabilizer shaft insulators and brackets. Refer to «Stabilizer Shaft Insulator Replacement»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system) .
  3. Connect the stabilizer shaft links to the stabilizer shaft. Refer to «Stabilizer Shaft Link Replacement»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system) .
  4. Using the jack stands, raise the front frame to the vehicle body leaving a gap of approximately 12 mm (0.5 in).
  5. Install the front frame mounting bolts (2) and tighten to 100 N.m (74 lb ft).
  6. Tighten the front frame mounting bolts an additional 90 degrees.
  7. Tighten the front frame reinforcement mounting bolts (1) to 50 N.m (37 lb ft).
  8. Install the front frame rear mounting bolts (1) and tighten to 100 N.m (74 lb ft).
  9. Tighten the front frame rear mounting bolts an additional 90 degrees.
  10. Install the left and right front frame reinforcement mounting bolts and tighten to 50 N.m (37 lb ft).
  11. Remove the adjustable jack stands.
  12. Install the bolt from the intermediate shaft bracket to the front cradle. Refer to «Front Wheel Drive Intermediate Shaft Replacement»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/axle-shafts/#wheel-drive-shafts) .
  13. Connect the outer tie rods to the knuckle. Refer to «Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Replacement»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/manual-power-steering/#power-steering-system__steering-linkage-outer-tie-rod-replacement) .
  14. Install the rear propeller shaft, if equipped. Refer to «Propeller Shaft Replacement»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/driveshaft-universal-joints/#propeller-shaft) .
  15. Install the front tire and wheel assemblies. Refer to «Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/wheel-tire-system/#tires-and-wheels__tire-and-wheel-removal-and-installation) .
  16. Remove the support and lower the vehicle.

Scheme 4

Scheme 4: Stabilizer Shaft Link Replacement
Scheme 4: Stabilizer Shaft Link Replacement
CalloutComponent Name
Preliminary Procedures Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle . Remove the tire and wheel. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation .
1Stabilizer Shaft Link (left side shown, right side similar). CAUTION: Refer to Fastener Caution . Procedure Use a wrench to prevent the stub link from rotating. Using the proper size wrench, remove the retaining nut for the upper stabilizer shaft link stub link. Repeat the previous steps to remove the lower stabilizer shaft stub link retaining nut. Remove the stabilizer shaft link from the vehicle. TIP: Use the wrench to hold the stabilizer shaft stub link while torquing to the specified torque. Tighten Stabilizer Link to Strut 72 N.m (52 lb ft) Stabilizer link to Stabilizer Shaft 75 N.m (55 lb ft)
CAUTION
Refer to Fastener Caution .

Stabilizer Shaft Link Replacement

Scheme 5

Scheme 5: Stabilizer Shaft Insulator Replacement
Scheme 5: Stabilizer Shaft Insulator Replacement
CalloutComponent Name
Preliminary Procedure Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle .
1Stabilizer Shaft Clamp Bolt (Qty: 4) CAUTION: Refer to Fastener Caution . Tighten 50 N.m (37 lb ft)
2Stabilizer Shaft Insulator Clamp (Qty: 2)
3Stabilizer Shaft Insulator (Qty: 2) TIP: Lift up on the stabilizer shaft to gain enough clearance to remove the insulator.
CAUTION
Refer to Fastener Caution .

Stabilizer Shaft Insulator Replacement

  1. Remove the lower control arm assembly. Refer to «Lower Control Arm Replacement»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system__lower-control-arm-replacement) .
  2. Install the lower control arm in a vise.
  3. Drill or grind off the head of the rivet.
  4. Use a punch and a hammer to loosen the rivets from the lower control arm.
  5. Remove the rivets from the lower control arm.
  6. Enlarge the hole for the ball joint bolt to 31/64.
  7. Remove the ball joint from the lower control arm.
  1. Position the ball joint on the lower control arm.
  2. Install the ball joint mounting nuts and bolts . Tighten Tighten the mounting nuts to 68 N.m (50 lb ft).
  3. Remove the lower control arm assembly from the vise.
  4. Install the lower control arm. Refer to «Lower Control Arm Replacement»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system__lower-control-arm-replacement) .
  5. Check the front end alignment of the vehicle. Refer to «Wheel Alignment Specifications»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/wheel-alignment/#wheel-alignment-system__wheel-alignment-specifications) .

Front Wheel Bearing and Hub Replacement

Special Tools

J 42129 Wheel Hub Puller

CAUTIONThe wheel bearing and hub assembly includes a magnetic encoder with built-in permanent magnets that the wheel speed sensor senses. Any contact with another magnet will damage the encoder magnets. The damage will cause a diagnostic trouble code to be set and will require wheel bearing and hub replacement.
  1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to «Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/ignition-switchsteering-lock/#general-information__lifting-and-jacking-the-vehicle) .
  2. Remove the tire and wheel. Refer to «Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/wheel-tire-system/#tires-and-wheels__tire-and-wheel-removal-and-installation) .
  3. Remove the front brake rotor. Refer to «Front Brake Rotor Replacement»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/mechanical-hydraulic/#disc-brake-system) .
  4. Remove the wheel drive shaft retaining nut and washer. Refer to «Front Wheel Drive Shaft Replacement»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/axle-shafts/#wheel-drive-shafts__front-wheel-drive-shaft-replacement) .
  5. Install the J 42129 Wheel Hub Puller to the wheel bearing and hub.
  6. Using the J 42129 Wheel Hub Puller , separate the wheel drive shaft from the wheel bearing and hub.
  7. Remove the J 42129 Wheel Hub Puller from the wheel bearing and hub assembly.
  8. Remove the front wheel bearing hub bolts.
  9. Remove the wheel bearing and hub assembly.
  1. Position the wheel bearing and hub assembly in the knuckle.
  2. Using an approved solvent, clean the old threadlocker from the threads of the wheel bearing hub and the bolts.
  3. Apply the high-temperature, high- strength threarlocker to 2/3 of the threads of the wheel bearing and the bolts.
  4. Install the retaining bolts for the wheel bearing and hub. Tighten Tighten the bolts to 120 N.m (89 lb ft).
  5. Install the front brake rotor. Refer to «Front Brake Rotor Replacement»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/mechanical-hydraulic/#disc-brake-system) .
  6. Install the wheel drive shaft retaining nut and washer. Refer to «Front Wheel Drive Shaft Replacement»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/axle-shafts/#wheel-drive-shafts__front-wheel-drive-shaft-replacement) .
  7. Install the tire and wheel. Refer to «Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/wheel-tire-system/#tires-and-wheels__tire-and-wheel-removal-and-installation) .
  8. Remove the support and lower the vehicle.

Scheme 6

Scheme 6: Steering Knuckle Replacement
Scheme 6: Steering Knuckle Replacement
CalloutComponent Name
Preliminary Procedures Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle . Remove the wheel bearing/hub assembly. Refer to Front Wheel Bearing and Hub Replacement . Disconnect the outer tie rod from the steering knuckle. Refer to Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Replacement . Disconnect the lower ball joint from the steering knuckle. Refer to Lower Control Arm Ball Joint Replacement .
1Front Strut Suspension Nut (Qty: 2)
2Front Strut Suspension Bolt (Qty: 2) CAUTION: Refer to Fastener Caution . TIP: Support the wheel drive shaft with mechanics wire after the knuckle has been removed. Tighten 195 N.m (144 lb ft)
3Steering Knuckle
CAUTION
Refer to Fastener Caution .

Steering Knuckle Replacement

Lower Control Arm Replacement

Special Tools

J 42188-B Ball Joint Separator

For regional equivalent tools, refer to Special Tools .

  1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to «Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/ignition-switchsteering-lock/#general-information__lifting-and-jacking-the-vehicle) .
  2. Remove the tire and wheel. Refer to «Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/wheel-tire-system/#tires-and-wheels__tire-and-wheel-removal-and-installation) .
  3. Disconnect the outer tie rod end from the steering knuckle. Refer to «Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Replacement»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/manual-power-steering/#power-steering-system__steering-linkage-outer-tie-rod-replacement) .
  4. Turn the knuckle to the left.
  5. Using the J-42188-A (2) and a wrench, loosen the lower ball joint nut.
  6. Using the J 42188-B separator (1), disconnect the lower ball joint from the knuckle.
  7. Remove the lower ball joint nut (1).
  8. Remove the front lower control arm front nut (4) from the stud (3).
  9. Remove the lower control arm rear nut (2) and bolt (1).
  10. Remove the front lower control arm (1) from the vehicle.
  1. Position the front lower control arm (1) in the frame.
  2. Install the front lower control arm rear nut (2) and bolt (1). Hand tighten the rear nut (2).
  3. Install the front lower control arm front nut (4) to the stud (3) and tighten to 195 N.m (144 lb ft).
  4. Tighten the front rear lower control arm rear nut (2) to 150 N.m (111 lb ft)..
  5. Connect the lower ball joint in the knuckle.
  6. Install the ball joint nut and tighten to: First Pass: 40 N.m (30 lb ft) Final Pass: plus 90 degrees.
  7. Connect the outer tie rod end. Refer to «Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Replacement»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/manual-power-steering/#power-steering-system__steering-linkage-outer-tie-rod-replacement) .
  8. Install the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to «Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/wheel-tire-system/#tires-and-wheels__tire-and-wheel-removal-and-installation) .
  9. Remove the support and lower the vehicle.

Scheme 7

Scheme 7: Front Lower Control Arm Bushing Replacement
Scheme 7: Front Lower Control Arm Bushing Replacement
CalloutComponent Name
Preliminary Procedures Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle . Remove the tire and wheel. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation .
1Front Lower Control Arm Bushing Nut CAUTION: Refer to Fastener Caution . Tighten 195 N.m (144 lb ft)
2Front Lower Control Arm Bushing Bolt (Qty: 2) NOTE: When tightening the bolt to specifications, hold the bolt and torque the nut for the proper torque.
3Lower Control Arm Front Bushing Nut (Qty: 2) Tighten 75 N.m (55 lb ft)
4Front Lower Control Arm Bushing NOTE: The control arm bushing is NOT serviced separately, but with the mounting bracket.
CAUTION
Refer to Fastener Caution .
NOTE
When tightening the bolt to specifications, hold the bolt and torque the nut for the proper torque.
NOTE
The control arm bushing is NOT serviced separately, but with the mounting bracket.

Front Lower Control Arm Bushing Replacement

Front Lower Control Arm Rear Bushing Replacement

Special Tools

  1. CH-48107 Bushing Remover and Installer
  2. J 2619-01 Slide Hammer and Adapter
  3. J 5590 Installer and Remover
  1. Remove the front lower control arm assembly. Refer to «Lower Control Arm Replacement»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system__lower-control-arm-replacement) .
  2. Install the lower control arm in a soft jawed vise.
  3. Assemble the J 2619-01 Slide Hammer and Adapter and the CH-48107 Bushing Remover and Installer.
  4. Position the J 2619-01 Slide Hammer and Adapter and the CH-48107 Bushing Remover and Installer lower control arm bushing.
  5. Using the J 2619-01 Slide Hammer and Adapter and the CH-48107 Bushing Remover and Installer , remove the front lower control arm bushing.
  6. Using the J 5590 Installer and Remover , remove the rear lower control arm bushing.
  1. Position the front and rear bushings so that they are equally in the control arm.
  2. Position the CH-48107 Bushing Remover and Installer on the front bushing.
  3. Using the vise, compress the front and rear bushings until they are seated.
  4. Remove the lower control arm from the vise.
  5. Remove the CH-48107 Bushing Remover and Installer from the front bushing.
  6. Install the lower control arm in the vehicle. Refer to «Lower Control Arm Replacement»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system__lower-control-arm-replacement) .

Wheel Stud Replacement

Special Tools

J 35917 Ball Joint Remover

WARNINGIf you are replacing the wheel(s), the wheel stud(s), the wheel nut(s) or the wheel bolt(s), install only new GM original equipment parts. Installation of used parts or non-GM original equipment parts may cause the wheel to loosen, loss of tire air pressure, poor vehicle handling and loss of vehicle control resulting in personal injury.
  1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to «Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/ignition-switchsteering-lock/#general-information__lifting-and-jacking-the-vehicle) .
  2. Remove the tire and wheel. Refer to «Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/wheel-tire-system/#tires-and-wheels__tire-and-wheel-removal-and-installation) .
  3. Remove the brake rotor. Refer to «Front Brake Rotor Replacement»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/mechanical-hydraulic/#disc-brake-system) .
  4. Use the J 35917 Ball Joint Remover in order to press the wheel stud (1) from the bearing/hub (2) .
  1. Install a new wheel stud from the back side of the bearing/hub.
  2. Install 3 flat washers (1) to the wheel stud (3).
  3. Install a hex nut (2) to the wheel stud (3).
  4. Tighten the hex nut until the stud head is fully seated in the bearing/hub flange.
  5. Remove the hex nut and the washers from the wheel stud.
  6. Install the brake rotor. Refer to «Front Brake Rotor Replacement»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/mechanical-hydraulic/#disc-brake-system) .
  7. Install the tire and wheel. Refer to «Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/wheel-tire-system/#tires-and-wheels__tire-and-wheel-removal-and-installation) .
  8. Lower the vehicle.

Strut and Shock Absorber Inspection (Strut)

Note. The strut assembly DOES NOT have to be removed from the vehicle to perform the following inspection procedure.

Note. A light film of oil on the top portion of the strut is normal. DO NOT replace the strut for this condition.

Scheme 8

Scheme 8: Strut and Shock Absorber Inspection (Strut)
Scheme 8: Strut and Shock Absorber Inspection (Strut)

Condition 1

Oil or fluid residue only on the bottom of the strut tube or on other strut components and not originating from the shaft seal, is not a strut related problem. DO NOT replace the strut, look for other external leaks.

Condition 2

Light film/residue on the strut tube, but not on the spring seat and originating from the shaft seal, is a NORMAL condition. DO NOT replace the strut.

Condition 3

Oil drip or trail down the strut tube and originating from the shaft seal, is an ABNORMAL condition. Replace the strut.

Condition 4

Extreme wet film of oil covering the strut tube and pooling in the spring seat and originating from the shaft seal, is an ABNORMAL condition. Replace the strut.

Inspection

  1. Verify the customer's concern is present. If the concern is present, continue to the next step. If the concern is not present, then the vehicle is operating normally.
  2. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to «Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/ignition-switchsteering-lock/#general-information__lifting-and-jacking-the-vehicle) .
  3. Visually inspect each of the shock absorbers or struts for external fluid leaks. Refer to the following conditions 1, 2 , 3 , and 4 for visual inspection. If conditions 1 or 2 are found, continue to step 4. If conditions 3 or 4 are found, replace strut. Refer to Strut Replacement.
  4. If equipped with electronic suspension control system, ensure that the system is working properly. Refer to Diagnostic Starting Point-Electronic Suspension Control.
  5. Use your hands in order to lift up and push down on each corner of the vehicle 3 times. Remove your hands from the vehicle. If the corner motion exceeds 2 cycles, replace the strut. If the strut does not exceed 2 cycles, NO repair is necessary.
  1. Remove the air inlet grille. Refer to «Air Inlet Grille Panel Replacement»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/wiperwasher-systems/#wiper-system-and-washer-system) .
  2. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to «Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/ignition-switchsteering-lock/#general-information__lifting-and-jacking-the-vehicle) .
  3. Remove the stabilizer link at the front strut. Refer to «Stabilizer Shaft Link Replacement»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system) .
  4. Remove the wheel speed sensor wiring harness (1) and (2) from the front strut (3).
  5. If removing the front strut to service any other suspension or steering component, scribe a line in the steering knuckle against the front strut. This will aid in the realigning the front suspension.
  6. Lower the vehicle to gain access to the upper strut mounting bolts.
  7. Remove the front strut mounting bolts and nuts.
  8. Remove the upper strut mounting nuts.
  9. Separate the front strut from the steering knuckle.
  10. Remove the front strut assembly from the vehicle.
  11. If replacing the strut or the spring, refer to «Strut, Strut Component, or Spring Replacement»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system__strut-strut-component-or-spring-replacement) .
  1. Position the front strut in the strut tower.
  2. Install the upper strut mounting nuts. Tighten Tighten the mounting nut to 45 N.m (33 lb ft).
  3. Raise the vehicle.
  4. Position the front strut on the steering knuckle.
  5. Install the front strut to steering knuckle mounting nuts and bolts. Tighten Tighten the mounting nut to 195 N.m (144 lb ft).
  6. Install the stabilizer link at the front strut. Refer to «Stabilizer Shaft Link Replacement»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system) .
  7. Install the wheel speed sensor wiring harness (1) and (2) on the front strut (3).
  8. Install the air inlet grille. Refer to «Air Inlet Grille Panel Replacement»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/wiperwasher-systems/#wiper-system-and-washer-system) .
  9. Align the front end. Refer to «Wheel Alignment Measurement»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/wheel-alignment/#wheel-alignment-system__wheel-alignment-measurement) .

Suspension Shock/Strut Disposal

WARNINGUse the proper eye protection when drilling to prevent metal chips from causing physical injury.
  1. Clamp the strut in a vise horizontally with the rod (1) completely extended.
  2. Drill a hole in the strut at the center of the end cap (3) using a 5 mm (3/16 in) drill bit. Gas or a gas/oil mixture will exhaust when the drill bit penetrates the strut. Use shop towels in order to contain the escaping oil.
  3. Remove the strut from the vise.
  4. Hold the strut over a drain pan vertically with the hole down.
  5. Move the rod (1) in and out of the tube (2) to completely drain the oil from the strut.

Strut, Strut Component, or Spring Replacement

Special Tools

  1. J 42991 Strut Rod Nut Socket
  2. J 45400 Strut Spring Compressor

Disassembly Procedure

  1. Remove the strut from the vehicle. Refer to «Strut Assembly Removal and Installation»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system) .
  2. Install the strut (2) in the J 45400 Strut Spring Compressor (1).
  3. Turn the spring compressor forcing screw (1) until the coil spring (2) is compressed.
  4. Using a socket or a wrench hold the strut rod, use the J 42991 Strut Rod Nut Socket and a ratchet wrench, remove the strut rod nut.
  5. Remove the strut from the J 45400 Strut Spring Compressor.
  6. Loosen the compressor forcing screw (1) until the upper strut mount and coil spring (2) may be removed.
  7. Remove the upper strut mount and the coil spring from the J 45400 Strut Spring Compressor.

Assembly Procedure

  1. Prior to reassembling the strut components, apply a small amount of lubricant to the strut rod and the inside of the jounce bumper. Refer to «Adhesives, Fluids, Lubricants, and Sealers»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system__adhesives-fluids-lubricants-and-sealers) .
  2. Install the coil spring and upper strut mount to the J 45400 Strut Spring Compressor.
  3. Turn the spring compressor forcing screw (1) until the coil spring is compressed.
  4. Install the strut to the coil spring and upper strut mount.
  5. Loosely install the strut retaining nut.
  6. Using a socket or a wrench hold the strut rod.
  7. With the wrench or socket holding the strut rod, use the J 42991 Strut Rod Nut Socket and a torque to install the upper strut mount nut. Tighten the strut mount nut to 85 N.m (63 lb ft).
  8. Remove the strut from the J 45400 Strut Spring Compressor.
  9. Install the strut to the vehicle. Refer to «Strut Assembly Removal and Installation»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system) .

Front Suspension Description and Operation

The front suspension has 2 primary purposes

  1. Isolate the driver from irregularities in the road surface.
  2. Define the ride and handling characteristics of the vehicle.

The front suspension absorbs the impact of the tires travelling over irregular road surfaces and dissipates this energy throughout the suspension system. This process isolates the vehicle occupants from the road surface. The rate at which the suspension dissipates the energy and the amount of energy that is absorbed is how the suspension defines the vehicles ride characteristics. Ride characteristics are designed into the suspension system and are not adjustable. The ride characteristics are mentioned in this description in order to aid in the understanding of the functions of the suspension system. The suspension system must allow for the vertical movement of the tire and wheel assembly as the vehicle travels over irregular road surfaces while maintaining the tire's horizontal relationship to the road.

This requires that the steering knuckle be suspended between a lower control arm and a strut assembly. The lower control arm attaches from the steering knuckle at the outermost point of the control arm. The attachment is through a ball and socket type joint. The innermost end of the control arm attached at 2 points to the vehicle frame through semi-rigid bushings. The upper portion of the steering knuckle is attached to a strut assembly. The strut assembly then connects to the vehicle body by way of an upper bearing. The steering knuckle is allowed to travel up and down independent of the vehicle body structure and frame.

This up and down motion of the steering knuckle as the vehicle travels over bumps is absorbed predominantly by the coil spring. This spring is retained under tension over the strut assembly. A strut is used in conjunction with this system in order to dampen out the oscillations of the coil spring. A strut is a basic hydraulic cylinder. The strut is filled with oil and has a moveable shaft that connects to a piston inside the strut. Valves inside the shock absorber offer resistance to oil flow and consequently inhibit rapid movement of the piston and shaft. Each end of the shock absorber is connected in such a fashion to utilize this recoil action of a spring alone. Each end of the strut is designed as the connection point of the suspension system to the vehicle and acts as the coil spring seat. This allows the strut to utilize the dampening action to reduce the recoil of a spring alone. The lower control arm is allowed to pivot at the vehicle frame in a vertical fashion. The ball joint allows the steering knuckle to maintain the perpendicular relationship to the road surface.

Front suspensions systems utilize a stabilizer shaft. The stabilizer bar connects between the left and right lower control arm assemblies through the stabilizer link and stabilizer shaft insulators. This bar controls the amount of independent movement of the suspension when the vehicle turns. Limiting the independent movement defines the vehicles handling characteristics on turns.

Special Tools

Illustration Tool Number/ Description J 2619-01 Slide Hammer J 42188-B Ball Joint Separator J 42129 Front/Rear Spindle Remover J 43631 Ball Joint Operator

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Scheme 9: Special Tools
Scheme 9: Special Tools

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Scheme 10

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Scheme 11

More articles — Suspension