Things You'll Need:
- Four-way lug-nut remover
- Socket wrench set up to 5/8
- Flathead screw driver
- Hydraulic jack
- Jack stands
- Hammer
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Step 1
Loosen the lug nuts on both front tires.
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Step 2
With a hydraulic jack, raise the vehicle on one side, then place a jack stand under the vehicle and adjust it to the proper height for the vehicle to rest on. Repeat this step for the opposite side.
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Step 3
Remove both front tires completely and let the car cool (if hot).
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Step 4
Detach the brake shoes from the rotor (usually with a 3/4 inch socket). Let the entire unit hang to the inside of the rotor. The brake pads will slide out; place them to the side.
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Step 5
Hit the rotor from the inside, applying gradual pressure, in order to knock it off the suspension completely.
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Step 6
Disconnect the tire rods; the ball joints should fall out automatically. Pull the springs out by hand. You should be able to clearly see the struts from top to bottom.
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Step 7
Open the hood and look for three screws sticking up with nuts on them. The screws should be on the far left and far right side of the car, close to the windshield and just inches from the frame.
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Step 8
Loosen all three screws, but do not remove them completely. Tap the middle of the strut until it drops slightly. Then go back under the car and create an elevated landing pad for the struts to fall on. (You can use a crate.)
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Step 9
Completely remove the screws that you loosened under the hood (on the top of the struts). They should fall out.
