Healthy
suspension system and the healthy shock absorber is necessary for cool and
controlled ride. But shock absorber, as the time passes worn out. There may
be different reasons. But once the problem is detected the remedy is the
replacement of the shocks. Continuing with the worn shocks is not only
unhealthy for your vehicle but is also not good for your safety.
If the shock is conventional then you can start by cutting the wiring and
tape securely. However in case of electrical connector, you can start by
unplugging it. Now see where the location of connector is. If it is in the
trunk then you can start just by wrapping tape over it. If the shock
absorber is located below, then you should find a safe location away from
exhaust heat.
The major difficulty you might face is loosening a rust-frozen nut and
bolt. Nut splitter or the clamp like tools can be used for opening the nuts
however if there is no space for the splitter then you can use solvent
followed by heat. If the piston also moves when you loosen the nut, then you
can use clamp locking pliers onto the "double-D" end of the piston
rod. The piston rod should be held from turning with the pliers whereas the
nuts are loosen by using a conventional wrench.
Next Page Continued Shocks that are mounted on the studs can be removed
easily. While removing the nuts you still have to pry off the shock, working
evenly at top and bottom so it doesn't cock. If you're not sure that what is
the condition of a bone-dry shock, you don't need to worry. Disconnect the
shock from the bottom mount and then compress the shock slowly. In case you
feel the lost motion it means that the shock is worn out.
Once the worn out shock is removed, its the turn to install a new shock
absorber. If you re installing gas shock absorber then ensure that there is
no air inside it. If there is any it should be removed out. This will enable
the new shock to operate smoothly, with greater resistance on extension.
Adjustable shock absorber has one advantage that is you can make adjustments
after installation. The mounts of replacement shocks and the original shocks
are different.
If the shock is mounted on the stud the nut is too tough to be thread then
you can firstly clean the threads with a wire brush and apply penetrating
oil/solvent. You can also apply a film of thread-locking compound to the
stud if the nut almost spun off. It will be however better if you can
tighten the shock hardware to specs without distorting the bushing.
