Suspension Strut: Notes

-- Hold shock absorber upright.

-- Check operation by extending and compressing by hand.

-- Resistance must be even and smooth over entire stroke

Shock absorbers that have been stored for a long period of time may need to be pumped several times.

Faulty shock absorbers make thumping noises while driving.

If shock absorbers are working properly, slight traces of oil on shock absorber do not necessarily mean it must be replaced. Too much oil lost will result in a "flat spot" during extension and compression.

Checking gas-filled shock absorbers (removed)

-- Compress shock absorber by hand.

-- Resistance must be even and smooth over entire stroke

-- Release shock absorber shaft.

If gas pressure in the shock absorber is adequate, piston rod will return by itself to the starting position.

If not, the shock absorbers do not necessarily need to be replaced. Unless there has been a significant loss of oil, a gasfilled shock absorber will continue to perform in the same way as a conventional shock absorber.