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Replace a Spare part Shock absorber – a defective one or if the limit of use has been already reached. Find out useful information about Shock absorber
Faults of shock absorber
the piston rod is moving freely at the beginning of the tensile/compression course;
leaking shock absorber;
lack of adequate resistance at tensile/compression.
Symptoms of shock absorber faults
increase of braking distance;
bad handling;
abnormal sounds during driving;
rocking body;
reduced comfort in the cabin;
premature and uneven tire wear.
Causes of shock absorber faults
loosening the nuts of the tank or the piston;
a reduced fluid level in the shock absorber;
worn piston, cylinder;
deformation of the rebound valve disc;
foreign matter;
increased fluid pressure in the gaps;
clog or damage to the valve parts;
contamination of the shock absorber fluid with mechanical impurities.
Diagnostics
It is important to check the condition of the shock absorbers every 20,000 kilometers. The easiest way is visual inspection. Rust or oil traces on the shock absorbers is the first sign that you should expect the item repair or replacement. Be sure to also inspect tires (a bad sign is uneven wear spots). The most popular method of diagnosis is rocking the vehicle front or rear. If you count more than one stroke swing after removing the load, it says that the shock absorbers are faulty. One of the best options is to call on the diagnostic stands, where professionals will make measurements and announce the verdict.
Repair of shock absorber
If you have any problems with the shock absorbers, qualified employees at specialized services can help:
replace gaskets, seals, corrosive or bent rods;
eliminate leaks;
fill shock absorbers with nitrogen;
replace fluid in the part;
check the shock absorbers on the two-speed post;
restore the rods by means of spatter or polymer.
Replacing the shock absorber
In normal operating conditions, the shock absorbers should be replaced every 3-4 years, in the conditions of aggressive environmental impact every 40-50 thousand kilometers. Both shock absorber should be replaced on the same axis to avoid skidding while driving. To carry out replacement you need:
remove the wheel;
dismantle the brake hosess without disconnecting them from the calipers in order to not pump the brake system;
dismantle the upper strut mountings;
unscrew all the shock absorber mountings at the bottom;
compress the spring with a puller (it is important that it is not twisted);
replace the defective shock absorber with the new one;
mount each of the elements in reverse order (also be sure to make damage assessment of spring for cracks).
Shock absorber replacement - instructions, descriptions and repair
Which shock absorbers should I choose: gas or oil?
Oil shock absorbers are smoother than gas shock absorbers and they are cheaper too. They ensure a smooth and comfortable ride in urban areas, but are not suitable for manoeuvring at high speed. Gas components are more modern and popular. The gas inside prevents the oil from foaming, which can happen when driving dynamically. As a result, this type of the components is suitable for both calm and sporty driving.
How can I tell if the shock absorbers are working properly?
The condition of the parts must be checked using a specially designed test bench in a garage. There are, however, some indirect signs that the components may have failed:
visible oil leakage on the parts;
increased braking distance;
the car’s handling has deteriorated;
accelerated tyre wear;
car body roll when braking sharply;
unusual sounds when driving on rough roads, especially if the car is full.
How can I install new shock absorbers myself?
To replace the components yourself you will need:
a car lifting device;
a spring compressor tool;
a set of ring spanners;
a set of drive sockets;
a hammer;
a screwdriver;
pliers.
If you need to replace the front shock absorbers, be prepared to remove the engine compartment seal. Before removing the rear parts, take out the boot trim lining. This allows you to access the upper fasteners of the shock absorbers. Having unscrewed them, raise the car up and unscrew the lower fasteners as well. Hold the shock absorber while doing this, as it could fall and cause an injury. After removing the component, inspect the mounts and springs. Replace them if necessary. Now follow the steps in reverse in order to reinstall them. Usually, your car owner’s manual will give you detailed instructions for the procedure. Remember that the shock absorbers should be replaced in pairs, so both on the front axle or both on the rear; hand pump them 3-5 times before installation.
MERCEDES-BENZ
VAUXHALL
RENAULT
CITROËN
HONDA
VOLVO
HYUNDAI
