Strut Assembly

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 1984 Volkswagen Scirocco, 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit, 1984 Volkswagen Quantum, and 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: DO NOT remove suspension struts at same time as this would overload bushings in axle beam.

Removal

1) With vehicle on floor, take off plastic cap covering strut upper retaining nuts and remove nuts.

2) Slowly raise vehicle until weight is off spring. Remove bolt retaining lower end of strut shock absorber to axle beam mount. Raise vehicle until strut can be removed.

Disassembly

Place strut assembly in vise. Hold piston rod and remove strut retaining nut. Take off components down to slotted nut. Remove slotted nut. Take off spacer and coil spring.

Inspection

Hand check shock absorbers for even resistance through entire piston stroke. Worn shock absorbers cannot be overhauled. If coil spring is being replaced, ensure that paint stripe color code on replacement spring matches original spring code.

Fig 1: Exploded View of Rear Suspension Components

Reassembly

1) Fit protective cap on shock absorber. Install rubber buffer, with small diameter end downward. Insert snap ring and washer.

2) Place spring into lower seat. Fit upper retainer with spacer sleeve. Tighten slotted nut retaining piston rod. Put on upper mounting hardware and tighten piston rod.

Installation

To install, reverse removal procedure.