Things You'll Need:
- Spring compressor tool
- Wrench set
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Step 1
Remove the strut you'd like to overhaul from your Nissan Sentra and secure it in a vise. Attach a spring compressor tool to the spring. If the spring has more than six coils leave the top few coils free.
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Step 2
Expose the center nut on the strut by removing the dust cap if it is present. Use the spring compressor tool to compress the spring just enough to permit the strut insulator to turn freely by hand, then remove the center nut and remove all components of the strut that obstruct removal of the spring.
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Step 3
Lay the components you remove in Step 2 out in the order and orientation you remove them; this will assist with reassembly. Remove the still compressed spring and slowly and carefully release the compression on the spring. Remove the spring compressor tool only when the spring is fully compressed and not under tension.
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Step 4
Place the spring compressor tool on a new spring and compress it sufficiently to let you place it on the strut and reassembly the components removed in Step 2, including the center nut. Take special care that the rubber spring seats on the top and bottom of the strut assembly and the spring are all positioned in their grooves as you slowly release the spring from the compressor.
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Step 5
Reinstall the repaired strut in your Nissan Sentra.
