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Front Suspension System Buick Encore I

Suspension Front 3 illustrations ~3132 words

Fastener Tightening Specifications

ApplicationSpecification
MetricEnglish
Front Lower Control Arm Front Bolt
First Pass115 N.m85 lb ft
Second PassLoosen 720 Degrees
Third Pass70 N.m52 lb ft
Final PassPlus 90-105 Degrees
Front Lower Control Arm Rear Bolt
First Pass80 N.m59 lb ft
Final PassPlus 60-75 Degrees
Front Suspension Strut Mount Nut65 N.m48 lb ft
Front Suspension Strut Mount Plate Nut65 N.m48 lb ft
Front Suspension Strut Nut110 N.m82 lb ft
Stabilizer Shaft Insulator Clamp Bolt22 N.m16 lb ft
Stabilizer Shaft Link Lower Nut65 N.m48 lb ft
Stabilizer Shaft Link Upper Nut65 N.m48 lb ft
Steering Knuckle Nut
First Pass37 N.m27 lb ft
Second PassLoosen 120 Degrees
Third Pass30 N.m22 lb ft
Final PassPlus 30-45 Degrees

Fastener Tightening Specifications

Removal Procedure

  1. Remove the intermediate steering shaft upper seal. Refer to «Intermediate Steering Shaft Upper Seal Replacement»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/ignition-switchsteering-lock/#steering-wheel-and-steering-column) .
  2. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to «Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/ignition-switchsteering-lock/#general-information__lifting-and-jacking-the-vehicle) .
  3. Remove the tire and wheel assemblies. Refer to «Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/wheel-tire-system/#tires-and-wheels__tire-and-wheel-removal-and-installation) .
  4. Remove the left front wheelhouse liner. Refer to «Front Wheelhouse Liner Replacement (Trax)»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/frames-subframes-crossmembers/#frame-and-underbody) , «Front Wheelhouse Liner Replacement (Encore)»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/frames-subframes-crossmembers/#frame-and-underbody) .
  5. Remove the drivetrain and front suspension frame transmission protector. Refer to «Drivetrain and Front Suspension Frame Transmission Protector Replacement»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/frames-subframes-crossmembers/#frame-and-underbody) .
  6. Disconnect the stabilizer shaft links from the stabilizer shaft. Refer to «Stabilizer Shaft Link Replacement»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system) .
  7. Disconnect the lower control arms from the steering knuckles. Refer to «Lower Control Arm Replacement»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system) .
  8. Disconnect the steering linkage outer tie rods from the steering knuckles. Refer to «Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Replacement»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/manual-power-steering/#power-steering-system) .
  9. Remove the rear transmission mount bracket through bolt. Refer to «Transmission Mount Bracket Replacement - Rear (AWD)»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/automatic-trans/#automatic-transmission-6t40mh8-mhb-repair-instructions-on-vehicle) , «Transmission Mount Bracket Replacement - Rear (FWD)»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/automatic-trans/#automatic-transmission-6t40mh8-mhb-repair-instructions-on-vehicle) .
  10. Remove the exhaust front pipe insulators (1).
  11. Using a suitable support, support the cross member area of the drivetrain and front suspension frame (1).
  12. Partially release the drivetrain and the front suspension frame front bolts and remove the frame rear bolts. Refer to «Drivetrain and Front Suspension Frame Replacement (Long Cradle)»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/frames-subframes-crossmembers/#frame-and-underbody) , «Drivetrain and Front Suspension Frame Replacement (Short Cradle)»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/frames-subframes-crossmembers/#frame-and-underbody) .
  13. Partially lower the rear of the drivetrain and front suspension frame in order to gain clearance for the stabilizer shaft.
  14. Remove the stabilizer shaft bracket bolts (1).
  15. Remove the stabilizer shaft (1) from the drivetrain and front suspension frame.

Installation Procedure

  1. Position the stabilizer shaft (1) on the drivetrain and front suspension frame.
  2. Install the stabilizer shaft bracket bolts (1) and tighten to 22 N.m (16 lb ft).
  3. Lift the drivetrain and front suspension frame (1) into the proper position and install and tighten all of the frame bolts. Refer to «Drivetrain and Front Suspension Frame Replacement (Long Cradle)»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/frames-subframes-crossmembers/#frame-and-underbody) , «Drivetrain and Front Suspension Frame Replacement (Short Cradle)»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/frames-subframes-crossmembers/#frame-and-underbody) .
  4. Install the rear transmission mount bracket through bolt. Refer to «Transmission Mount Bracket Replacement - Rear (AWD)»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/automatic-trans/#automatic-transmission-6t40mh8-mhb-repair-instructions-on-vehicle) , «Transmission Mount Bracket Replacement - Rear (FWD)»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/automatic-trans/#automatic-transmission-6t40mh8-mhb-repair-instructions-on-vehicle) .
  5. Connect the steering linkage outer tie rods to the steering knuckles. Refer to «Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Replacement»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/manual-power-steering/#power-steering-system) .
  6. Connect the lower control arms to the steering knuckles. Refer to «Lower Control Arm Replacement»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system) .
  7. Connect the stabilizer shaft links to the stabilizer shaft. Refer to «Stabilizer Shaft Link Replacement»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system) .
  8. Install the exhaust front pipe insulators (1).
  9. Install the drivetrain and front suspension frame transmission protector. Refer to «Drivetrain and Front Suspension Frame Transmission Protector Replacement»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/frames-subframes-crossmembers/#frame-and-underbody) .
  10. Install the left front wheelhouse liner. Refer to «Front Wheelhouse Liner Replacement (Trax)»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/frames-subframes-crossmembers/#frame-and-underbody) , «Front Wheelhouse Liner Replacement (Encore)»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/frames-subframes-crossmembers/#frame-and-underbody) .
  11. Install the tire and wheel assemblies. Refer to «Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/wheel-tire-system/#tires-and-wheels__tire-and-wheel-removal-and-installation) .
  12. Install the intermediate steering shaft upper seal. Refer to «Intermediate Steering Shaft Upper Seal Replacement»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/ignition-switchsteering-lock/#steering-wheel-and-steering-column) .

Scheme 4

Scheme 4: Stabilizer Shaft Link Replacement
Scheme 4: Stabilizer Shaft Link Replacement
CalloutComponent Name
Preliminary Procedure Raise and Support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle . Remove the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation .
1Stabilizer Shaft Link Upper Nut CAUTION: Refer to Fastener Caution . Procedure Use a suitable tool to hold the stabilizer shaft link stud when loosening or tightening the stabilizer shaft link upper nut. Remove and discard the stabilizer shaft link upper nut. Replace with NEW only. Tighten 65 N.m (48 lb ft)
2Stabilizer Shaft Link Lower Nut Procedure Use a suitable tool to hold the stabilizer shaft link stud when loosening or tightening the stabilizer shaft link lower nut. Remove and discard the stabilizer shaft link lower nut. Replace with NEW only. Tighten 65 N.m (48 lb ft)
3Stabilizer Shaft Link
CAUTION
Refer to Fastener Caution .

Stabilizer Shaft Link Replacement

Front Wheel Bearing and Hub Replacement

Special Tools

CH-50559 Wheel Hub/Bearing Remover Kit

For equivalent regional tools, refer to Special Tools .

  1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to «Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/ignition-switchsteering-lock/#general-information__lifting-and-jacking-the-vehicle) .
  2. Remove the steering knuckle. Refer to «Steering Knuckle Replacement»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system) .
  3. Position the steering knuckle in a suitable vise.
  4. Position the CH-50059-1 bridge assembly (1) and the CH-50559-2 removal/installation adapter (2) on the steering knuckle.
  5. Use the CH-50059-1 bridge assembly and the CH-50559-2 removal/installation adapter to separate the front wheel bearing and hub assembly.
  6. If the front wheel bearing inner race is removed with the front wheel hub, use a hydraulic press (1) and appropriate adaptor (2) to remove the race from the hub.
  7. Remove the front wheel bearing retaining ring (1) from the steering knuckle.
  8. Position the CH-50059-1 bridge assembly (1) and the CH-50559-3 wheel bearing removal adapter (2) on the steering knuckle.
  9. Remove the front wheel bearing from the steering knuckle and discard. DO NOT reuse the wheel bearing. Replace with NEW only.
  1. Use the CH-50559-4 installation adapter (1), appropriate extension and hydraulic press to install the new front wheel bearing into the steering knuckle.
  2. Position the CH-50559-4 installation adapter (1) and the appropriate extension to the inside of the front wheel bearing.
  3. Position the CH-50559-2 removal/installation adapter and the appropriate extension on the front wheel hub.
  4. Press the front wheel hub until it is correctly seated.
  5. Install the front wheel bearing retaining ring (1) in the steering knuckle.
  6. Verify the front wheel bearing and hub assembly rotates smoothly.
  7. Install the steering knuckle. Refer to «Steering Knuckle Replacement»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system) .
  1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to «Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/ignition-switchsteering-lock/#general-information__lifting-and-jacking-the-vehicle) .
  2. Remove the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to «Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/wheel-tire-system/#tires-and-wheels__tire-and-wheel-removal-and-installation) .
  3. Disconnect the steering linkage outer tie rod from the steering knuckle. Refer to «Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Replacement»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/manual-power-steering/#power-steering-system) .
  4. If equipped, remove the front wheel speed sensor from the steering knuckle. Refer to «Front Wheel Speed Sensor Replacement»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/anti-locktraction-control/#antilock-brake-system) .
  5. Disconnect the front wheel drive shaft from the steering knuckle. Refer to «Front Wheel Drive Shaft Replacement - Left Side»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/axle-shafts/#wheel-drive-shafts__front-wheel-drive-shaft-replacement) , or «Front Wheel Drive Shaft Replacement - Right Side»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/axle-shafts/#wheel-drive-shafts__front-wheel-drive-shaft-replacement) .
  6. Remove the front brake shield. Refer to «Front Brake Shield Replacement»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/mechanical-hydraulic/#disc-brake-system) .
  7. Disconnect the lower control arm from the steering knuckle. Refer to «Lower Control Arm Replacement»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system) .
  8. Disconnect the strut assembly from the steering knuckle. Refer to «Strut Assembly Removal and Installation»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system__strut-assembly-removal-and-installation) .
  9. Remove the steering knuckle (1) from the vehicle.
  10. Remove the wheel bearing and hub assembly from the steering knuckle. Refer to «Front Wheel Bearing and Hub Replacement»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system__front-wheel-bearing-and-hub-replacement) .
  1. Install the wheel bearing and hub assembly in the steering knuckle. Refer to «Front Wheel Bearing and Hub Replacement»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system__front-wheel-bearing-and-hub-replacement) .
  2. Position the steering knuckle (1) on the vehicle.
  3. Connect the strut assembly to the steering knuckle. Refer to «Strut Assembly Removal and Installation»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system__strut-assembly-removal-and-installation) .
  4. Connect the lower control arm to the steering knuckle. Refer to «Lower Control Arm Replacement»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system) .
  5. Install the front brake shield. Refer to «Front Brake Shield Replacement»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/mechanical-hydraulic/#disc-brake-system) .
  6. Connect the front wheel drive shaft to the steering knuckle. Refer to «Front Wheel Drive Shaft Replacement - Left Side»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/axle-shafts/#wheel-drive-shafts__front-wheel-drive-shaft-replacement) , or «Front Wheel Drive Shaft Replacement - Right Side»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/axle-shafts/#wheel-drive-shafts__front-wheel-drive-shaft-replacement) .
  7. If equipped, install the front wheel speed sensor in the steering knuckle. Refer to «Front Wheel Speed Sensor Replacement»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/anti-locktraction-control/#antilock-brake-system) .
  8. Connect the steering linkage outer tie rod to the steering knuckle. Refer to «Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Replacement»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/manual-power-steering/#power-steering-system) .
  9. Install the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to «Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/wheel-tire-system/#tires-and-wheels__tire-and-wheel-removal-and-installation) .
  10. If the vehicle had a camber adjustment repair, check the front wheel alignment. Refer to «Wheel Alignment Specifications»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/wheel-alignment/#wheel-alignment-system__wheel-alignment-specifications) .
  1. Record the front suspension measurement (p) at curb weight which is the distance from the center of the wheel to the bottom of the front fender.
  2. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to «Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/ignition-switchsteering-lock/#general-information__lifting-and-jacking-the-vehicle) .
  3. Remove the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to «Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/wheel-tire-system/#tires-and-wheels__tire-and-wheel-removal-and-installation) .
  4. Remove the steering knuckle nut (1) and bolt (2).
  5. Remove the front lower control arm front bolt (1) and nut (2).
  6. Remove the front lower control arm rear nut (1) and bolt (2).
  7. Push the front brake corner forward and remove the lower control arm (3) from the vehicle.
  1. Push the front brake corner forward and position the lower control arm (3) on the vehicle.
  2. Install the front lower control arm rear nut (1) and front lower control arm rear bolt (2) and tighten by hand.
  3. Install the front lower control arm front bolt (1) and front lower control arm front nut (2) and tighten by hand.
  4. Install the steering knuckle nut (1) and steering knuckle bolt (2) and tighten the nut to 37 N.m (27 lb ft).
  5. After tightening, loosen the steering knuckle nut (1) 120 degrees.
  6. After loosening, tighten the steering knuckle nut (1) to 30 N.m (22 lb ft) + (30-45 degrees).
  7. Support the lower control arm with a hydraulic jack and lift the control arm until the previously recorded measurement (p) is achieved.
  8. Tighten the front lower control arm front bolt (1) to 115 N.m (85 lb ft).
  9. After tightening, loosen the front lower control arm front bolt (1) 720 degrees.
  10. After loosening, tighten the front lower control arm front bolt (1) to 70 N.m (52 lb ft) + (90-105 degrees).
  11. Tighten the front lower control arm rear bolt (2) to 80 N.m (59 lb ft) + (60-75 degrees).
  12. Install the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to «Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/wheel-tire-system/#tires-and-wheels__tire-and-wheel-removal-and-installation) .

Wheel Stud Replacement

Special Tools

CH-43631 Ball Joint Separator

For equivalent regional tools, refer to Special Tools .

  1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to «Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/ignition-switchsteering-lock/#general-information__lifting-and-jacking-the-vehicle) .
  2. Remove the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to «Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/wheel-tire-system/#tires-and-wheels__tire-and-wheel-removal-and-installation) .
  3. Remove the front wheel bearing and hub assembly. Refer to «Front Wheel Bearing and Hub Replacement»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system__front-wheel-bearing-and-hub-replacement) .
  4. Use the CH-43631 separator (2) to remove the wheel stud (1) from the front wheel bearing and hub assembly. Discard the stud.
  1. Install a NEW wheel stud in the front wheel bearing and hub assembly flange (2).
  2. Position flat washers (3) and an old wheel nut (1) on the wheel stud.
  3. Use a pry bar to prevent the front wheel bearing and hub assembly flange from turning.
  4. Tighten the wheel nut until the wheel stud is firmly seated in the front wheel bearing and hub assembly flange.
  5. Remove the wheel nut and the flat washers.
  6. Install the front wheel bearing and hub assembly. Refer to «Front Wheel Bearing and Hub Replacement»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system__front-wheel-bearing-and-hub-replacement) .
  7. Install the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to «Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/wheel-tire-system/#tires-and-wheels__tire-and-wheel-removal-and-installation) .

Strut and Shock Absorber Inspection

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 5

Scheme 5: Strut and Shock Absorber Inspection
Scheme 5: Strut and Shock Absorber Inspection

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/encore/i-2012-2016/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.

Strut Assembly Removal and Installation

Special Tools

CH-49375 Spanner

For equivalent regional tools, refer to Special Tools .

  1. Remove the air inlet grille panel. Refer to «Air Inlet Grille Panel Replacement (Trax)»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/wiperwasher-systems/#wiper-system-and-washer-system) , «Air Inlet Grille Panel Replacement (Encore)»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/wiperwasher-systems/#wiper-system-and-washer-system) .
  2. If equipped, remove the front suspension strut mount plate nut cap (1).
  3. Use the CH-49375 spanner (2) and a suitable tool (1) to loosen the front suspension strut mount plate nut.
  4. Remove the front suspension strut mount plate nut (1) and the front suspension strut mount plate (2).
  5. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to «Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/ignition-switchsteering-lock/#general-information__lifting-and-jacking-the-vehicle) .
  6. Remove the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to «Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/wheel-tire-system/#tires-and-wheels__tire-and-wheel-removal-and-installation) .
  7. Remove any harnesses or hoses attached to the strut assembly.
  8. Disconnect the stabilizer shaft link from the strut assembly. Refer to «Stabilizer Shaft Link Replacement»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system) .
  9. Remove the front suspension strut nuts (1) and bolts (2).
  10. Push the lower control arm and steering knuckle downward to disengage the strut assembly and remove the strut assembly (1) from the vehicle.
  11. If removing the strut assembly to service any of the strut assembly components, refer to «Strut, Strut Component, or Spring Replacement»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system) .
  1. Push the lower control arm and steering knuckle downward and install strut assembly (1) on the vehicle.
  2. Install the front suspension strut nuts (1) and bolts (2) and tighten the nuts (1) to 110 N.m (82 lb ft).
  3. Connect the stabilizer shaft link to the strut assembly. Refer to «Stabilizer Shaft Link Replacement»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system) .
  4. Connect any harnesses or hoses previously attached to the strut assembly.
  5. Install the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to «Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/wheel-tire-system/#tires-and-wheels__tire-and-wheel-removal-and-installation) .
  6. Install the front suspension strut mount plate (2) and start the front suspension strut mount plate nut (1).
  7. Use the CH-49375 spanner (2) and a suitable tool (1) to tighten the front suspension strut mount plate nut to 65 N.m (48 lb ft).
  8. If equipped, install the front suspension strut mount plate nut cap (1).
  9. Install the air inlet grille panel. Refer to «Air Inlet Grille Panel Replacement (Trax)»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/wiperwasher-systems/#wiper-system-and-washer-system) , «Air Inlet Grille Panel Replacement (Encore)»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/wiperwasher-systems/#wiper-system-and-washer-system) .

Disassembly Procedure

  1. Remove the strut assembly from the vehicle. Refer to «Strut Assembly Removal and Installation»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system__strut-assembly-removal-and-installation) .
  2. Install the strut assembly (2) in a suitable spring compressor (1) and compress the front spring.
  3. Use a suitable bit (1) and socket (2) to loosen the front suspension strut mount nut.
  4. Slowly loosen the spring compressor (2) to remove the front suspension strut components to be serviced.
  5. Remove the front suspension strut mount assembly (1), front spring insulator (2), front spring (3), front suspension strut bumper (4) and the front strut (5) from the spring compressor.

Assembly Procedure

  1. Install the front suspension strut (5), front suspension strut bumper (4), front spring (3), front spring insulator (2) and the front suspension strut mount assembly (1) in the spring compressor.
  2. Use the spring compressor (1) to compress the front spring (2).
  3. Install the front suspension strut mount nut and tighten as much as possible by hand.
  4. Use a suitable bit (1) and socket (2) to tighten the front suspension strut mount nut to 65 N.m (48 lb ft).
  5. Remove the strut assembly from the spring compressor.
  6. Install the strut assembly. Refer to «Strut Assembly Removal and Installation»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system__strut-assembly-removal-and-installation) .

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 CH-49375 S-9906702 Spanner CH-43631 CH-49455 J-43631 Ball Joint Separator CH-50559 Wheel Hub/Bearing Remover/Installer Kit

Scheme 6

Scheme 6: Special Tools
Scheme 6: Special Tools

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