Check rear-axle suspension strut - SI32.22-P-0001-03A

1. Remove wheels at rear.
2. Carefully open upper visible clamp's protective collar (see Fig 1).

   The protective collar and suspension strut's cylinder must not be damaged.

3. Remove collar.

   If, externally and internally the bellows press against the cylinders (see Fig 2) the suspension strut has sufficient residual pressure and can remain in the vehicle.

   If the bellows touch only internally (gap to external cylinder visible, see Fig 3), the residual pressure has escaped.

4. 5 In this case the suspension strut needs to be replaced.
   Fig 1: Locating Clamp On Protective Collar

   

   Suspension strut OK. 

   When no gap is visible the air bellows lie flush at the outside and inside of the cylinder. 

   Fig 2: Locating Air Bellows (Suspension Strut Without Residual Pressure)

   
5. 6 Mount protective-collar's clamp again.

   Place the clamp so that it can be easily accessed externally when clamped.

6. 7 Mount road wheels again.
7. 8 Use the DAS to fill system with pressure.
8. 9 Lower vehicles onto wheels.

It is not sufficient to simply test the air bellows by pressing the fingers against them. A visual inspection is the only way to provide conclusive evidence as to the condition of the suspension strut.

Rear suspension struts that were interchanged during a test, need no longer be clamped to make the warranty part determination easier.

Fig 3: Locating Air Bellows

Replace suspension strut.

Gap visible, the air bellows do not touch the outer cylinder.