Strut Assembly: Reassembly

NOTE: Different versions of gas shock absorber are installed depending on suspension version.

Clamp strut in VAG 1752/2. Align lower spring base in direction of lower strut eye. See Fig 1.

Fig 1: Aligning Lower Spring Base
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Install spring (compressed in VAG 1752/1), aligning end of coil spring in lower spring base. Install other components inside of spring. See Figure.
Install upper spring base, aligning end of coil spring with mark. See Fig 2. Install upper spring retainer with holes aligned with outer slots in upper spring base. Install remaining components and NEW self-locking nut loosely.

Fig 2: Aligning Upper End Of Spring
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Mount gauge VAG 1752/8 to upper spring retainer. See Fig 3. Stamped nuts of spring retainer (arrows) must be located in recesses of spring base. Install mounting ring, dished washer and self-lock-nut. Mount VAG1752/8 adjustment gauge for struts onto VAG1752/2 spring mounting tool.

Fig 3: Installing Adjustment Gauge VAG 1752/8
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Mount VAG1752/8 gauge onto upper spring retainer and tighten bolts. See Fig 4. Lock VAG1752/2 spring mounting tool upper levers into position.

Fig 4: Mounting VAG 1752/8 Adjustment Gauge On Strut
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Loosen lower locking lever and turn upper spring retainer until scale of VAG1752/2 spring mounting tool is positioned at 0. See . Make sure that ends of springs lie against stops. Secure locking lever in position.

Fig 5: Setting Adjustment Gauge VAG1752/2 At Zero Position
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Tighten self-locking nut using 3379 socket wrench insert and 3079 counter holder. Tightening torque: 18 ft. lbs. (25 N.m). See Fig 3.

CAUTION: Do not damage the surface of the spring when driving on the lower spring base and the spring retainer.

Fig 6: Aligning Lower Spring Base & Retainer

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Turn lower spring base and spring retainer as necessary so that end of spring contacts stop. See Fig 6.
Release coil spring tension. Ensure spring ends are still against stops. Remove tools from strut. Ensure axis of strut cap is offset 90 degrees from lower strut eye. See Fig 7. Lubricate cover O-ring with silicone grease and install on top of strut.

Fig 7: Aligning Strut Cap
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Use special tools to press in cap. See Fig 8.

Fig 8: Pressing On Strut Cap
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