31 31 031 Replacing front left or right spring strut shock absorber: removing

Clamp special tool 31 3 341 in vice.

Install insert 31 3 358 in special tool 31 3 354.

Position special tools 31 3 355 and 31 3 354 with insert 31 3 358 from above on special tool 31 3 341 until retaining bolts (1) can be felt and heard snapping into place.

Check seating of special tools 31 3 355 and 31 3 354 with insert 31 3 358 , correct if necessary.

Fig 1: Identifying Retaining Bolt And Special Tools

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Clean coil spring to remove coarse contamination and take up with special tools 31 3 355 and 31 3 354 with insert 31 3 358 .

Twist spring strut until end of coil spring (1) is flush with end of special tool 31 3 355.

Fig 2: Pressing Spring Strut Using Special Tool

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Compress coil spring until stress on piston rod is relieved.

Take off protective cap.

Release nut with special tool 31 2 210 (grip piston rod in the process).

Fig 3: Removing Protective Cap Nut Using Special Tool (31 2 210)

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Remove support bearing (1), dust sleeve and supporting ring (2).

Remove shock absorber with auxiliary damper, gaiter and lower spring pad sideways from tensioned coil spring.

Fig 4: Identifying Support Bearing And Support Disc

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If necessary, remove auxiliary damper (1), gaiter (2) and spring pad (3) from shock absorber.

Fig 5: Identifying Auxiliary Damper, Gaiter And Spring Pad

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Relieve tension on coil spring.

Remove coil spring with spring plate from special tools 31 3 355, 31 3 358 and 31 3 354.

Fig 6: Compressing Coil Spring Using Special Tools

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