2001 Subaru Outback Base, AutomaticFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Strut Assembly: Assembly

  1. Before installing coil spring, strut mount, etc., on the strut, check for the presence of air in the dampening force generating mechanism of the strut since air prevents proper dampening force from being produced.
  2. Checking for the presence of air
    1. Place the strut vertically with the piston rod facing up.
    2. Move the piston rod to the center of its entire stroke.
    3. While holding the piston rod end with fingertips, move the rod up and down.
    4. If the piston rod moves at least .39" (10 mm) in the former step, purge air from the strut.
    NOTE: After completely purging air from the strut, be sure to place the strut with the piston rod facing up. If it is laid down, check for entry of air in the strut as outlined in step  2.
  3. Air purging procedure
    1. Place the strut vertically with the piston rod facing up.
    2. Fully extend the piston rod.
    3. With the piston rod fully extended, place the piston rod side down. The strut must stand vertically.
    4. Fully contract the piston rod.
    5. Repeat 3 or 4 times from step  a.
    NOTE: Make sure that the vertical installing direction of coil spring as shown in Fig 1.
  4. Using coil spring compressor, compress the coil spring.
  5. Set the coil spring correctly so that its end face (1) fits well into the spring seat as shown in Fig 2.
  6. Install helper and dust cover to the piston rod.
    NOTE: Ensure that upper spring seat is positioned as shown in Fig 3.
  7. Pull the piston rod fully upward, and install rubber seat and upper spring seat.
    CAUTION: Be sure to use a new self-locking nut.
  8. Install strut mount to the piston rod, and tighten the self-locking nut temporarily.
  9. Using hexagon wrench to prevent strut rod from turning, tighten self-locking nut with strut mount socket. See Figure.
  10. Loosen the coil spring carefully.
Fig 1: Installing Coil Spring Vertical
G00370674Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.