Acura 51401-SEP-A15 Front Spring

If the shocks or coil springs show signs of wear such as leaking fluid, loss of damping capability, or physical damage like chips, sagging, or cracks, consider all options before starting any work. The shock absorbers or coil springs cannot be serviced individually and must be replaced if issues arise, although complete assemblies may be available on an exchange basis, saving time and effort. Before disassembling the vehicle, check the cost and availability of parts. Begin by removing the shock absorber/coil spring assembly, working on one assembly at a time to avoid mixing parts. Mount the assembly in a vise, using wood or rags to protect it, and avoid over-tightening. Install the spring compressor according to the manufacturer's instructions, compressing the spring enough to relieve pressure from the upper spring seat, which can be confirmed by wiggling the spring. Mark the orientation of the upper mount relative to the spring or damper unit for proper reinstallation. Use an Allen wrench to hold the shock damper rod while unscrewing the self-locking retaining nut with a box-end wrench. Disassemble the parts in the order they are removed. For reassembly, carefully place the spring onto the shock absorber body, ensuring it rests in the lowest part of the seat, use a new self-locking nut, and tighten it to the specified torque. Before releasing the spring compressor, ensure the upper mount is oriented as it was originally. Once the spring compressor is removed, the assembly is ready for installation.

Installation is the reverse of removal, noting the following points: raise the rear knuckle with a floor jack to simulate normal ride height, then tighten the shock absorber lower mounting bolt to the specified torque, tighten the upper mounting nuts to the specified torque, and tighten the wheel lug nuts to the specified torque.