Install Tip

Always use the new nut supplied

The original mounting stud nut may not thread correctly or may damage the new shock or strut upper mounting stud threads. The threads in a...

Do not use pliers or vise grips on the polished shaft

They will score the polished chrome shaft. This will cause increased wear on the upper seals and may lead to a hydraulic fluid leak from...

Always use a torque wrench for the upper strut shaft mounting nut

Using an air or electric impact wrench to tighten the upper mounting nut on the piston rod can exceed the recommended torque and cause damage....

95–99 Nissan Maxima rear strut installation

These vehicles require special spring-to-strut mounting procedures. Improper assembly can cause excessive side strain and strut failure. If the lower mounting bushing and bolt do...

Note the overall length difference

Replacement shocks and struts may differ in length from the original equipment units. In some cases the replacement unit may be longer to help protect...

Never replace just one shock or strut

To ensure the vehicle performs safely and as designed, always replace shocks or struts in pairs. When damping rates differ significantly from side to side,...

Check the contents of the small parts kit

Most shocks and struts include loose parts such as nuts, washers, spacers, and possibly a bumper. Before installation, verify all parts in the kit are...

Some strut mounts have adjustable “clock” position insulators

During installation, what may appear to be a mis-positioned welded spring seat may actually require repositioning the upper mount rubber insulator. Some struts require rotating...

Nissan Maxima installation procedure

After inserting the upper mounting studs into the vehicle mounting holes, the lower mount bolt may not align because the upper studs sit at a...

Don’t add fluids when replacing a KYB cartridge-style strut

Mechanics sometimes find the strut body filled with fluid when replacing a cartridge. Do not add water, oil, or any other liquids inside the strut...