Shock Absorbers, Checking When Removed
Defective shock absorbers are noticeable when driving due to loud rumbling noises - a result of wheel hopping - especially on poor stretches of road. Moreover, they can be recognized by a large loss of oil.
NOTE:
Shock absorbers are maintenance-free, shock absorber oil cannot be topped off.
A removed shock absorber can be checked by hand as follows:
-- Press shock absorber together by hand.
- Piston rod must move with even resistance throughout entire stroke and without jerking.
-- Release piston rods.
- For shock absorbers with sufficient gas pressure, piston rod returns to initial position automatically.
NOTE:
If this is not the case, the shock absorber must be replaced. As long as there is no large loss of oil, the mode of operation corresponds to that of a conventional shock absorber.
The damping function is also completely available without gas pressure, as long as there is no large loss of oil. However, noise may increase.