Piston Rod Nut Removal Note

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Mazda RX-8. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

WARNING:

Before removing the piston rod nut, secure the shock absorber and spring in the SSTs. Otherwise, the shock absorber and spring could fly off under tremendous pressure and cause serious injury or death, or damage to vehicle parts.

Protect the coil spring from scratches using a piece of cloth and install the SSTs.
Compress the coil spring using the SSTs and remove the piston rod nut.

Fig 1: Removing Piston Rod Nut
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.