Replace the shock absorber if there is a leak in the shock absorber fluid or if the damping efficiency is lost
The shock absorber operates by creating increased resistance to body swaying due to the forced flow of fluid through small flow sections in the valves (this applies to oil shock absorbers, while in gas shock absorbers the operating principle is based on the pressure of gas pumped under a certain pressure).
The serviceability of the shock absorber can be checked in the following ways:
- place the car on an overpass or inspection pit and swing it by the front bumper, applying a force of 40 - 50 kgf.
With serviceable shock absorbers, the number of body oscillations should not exceed three;
- disconnect the lower shock absorber mount and bleed it by hand.
A serviceable shock absorber pumps smoothly, without dips or jamming, with little resistance. In this case, the resistance during the rebound stroke should be greater than during the compression stroke.
Replace faulty shock absorbers only in pairs (front, rear) or as a set (all four).
You will need: wrenches "for 6", "for 17" (two).
Holding the shock absorber rod from turning with a wrench, unscrew the nut.
Remove the thrust washer
Remove the upper rubber pillow.
Unscrew the nut of the lower hinge bolt.
Remove the bolt
Remove the shock absorber.
Inspect the lower ball joint.
Replace the lower ball joint cushions and bushings with new ones if necessary.
Install the new shock absorber in the reverse order of removal.
Before installing the shock absorber on the vehicle, pull the piston rod out to its full stroke.
If you are working on a lift, lower the vehicle before assembling the upper mount so that the suspension is loaded with the weight of the vehicle.