1. Remove the top cover and top strut lock nuts.
2. Block the front wheels securely.
3. Raise and secure the rear of the vehicle.
4. Remove the rear wheel.
5. Remove the strut mounting bolt, lower the suspension and remove the strut.
CAUTION: Do not remove the center or axle nut on top of the shock.
Disassembly
6. Install the spring puller on the spring. Tighten the puller just enough to remove the force of the spring on the top cup.
7. With the spring compressed, remove the central nut. Use the correct size hex wrench to keep the shaft from rotating while loosening the nut.
8. Remove the top mount. Carefully remove the seals, gaskets, and bearing at the top of the strut; save their order for correct subsequent assembly. Remove the compressed spring.
9. If the spring needs to be checked or replaced, slowly release the tension on the puller arms. Remove the tool when the spring is released to normal length.
10. Manually check the shock absorber for smooth operation over its full travel. Check it also for smoothness for short (50-100 mm) blows. Replace the assembly if you feel any sign of unevenness or binding.
For installation:
11. Stand the rack assembly upright. If a vise is used, place something between their jaws to avoid damage.
12. Install the limiter and boot. Install the compressed spring, making sure that its lower end is in the cup in its place.
13. Install the top cup, bushings, bearing, seals and mount.
14. Install a new axle nut; on 86-89 Accord tighten it to 22 Nm, and on 90-91 Accord to 30 Nm.
15. Place the shock absorber in the top mount; tighten the top fixing nuts by hand.
16. Lower the rear suspension arm and place the strut in position. Install the mounting bolt.
17. Place a jack under the lower strut mount. Raise the jack until the entire weight of the vehicle is on the jack.
18. Tighten the lower fixing bolt to 55 Nm. Tighten the top nuts to 39 Nm.
19. Install the rear wheel. Lower the car to the ground.