Repair of a gas shock absorber with your own hands

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Shock absorber repair in garage conditions usually does not lead to the desired result. However, there are breakdowns that can be fixed by yourself. Actually, we will talk about them today.

The weakest nodegas-oil shock absorbersthere is a shaft seal, when worn, oil leaks from the device. This leads to the deterioration of the characteristics of the shock absorber up to the complete loss of its effectiveness. To prevent this from happening, we offer you a step-by-step guide to repairing this part. So, let's get started:

STEP 1. Gas release from the tank

	Fasten the shock absorber in a vice. To protect the case from damage, you can clamp it through the fabric.
	Hook the protective cover with a flat screwdriver.
	CAREFULLYby piercing the rubber gasket with a medical needle, drain all the injected gas from the tank.
	Using two large screwdriversECONOMICALLYbend the spring and pull out the bracket.

STEP 2. Removing the cover and removing the stem

	Fasten the shock absorber in a vice. To protect the case from damage, you can clamp it through the fabric.
	Hook the protective cover with a flat screwdriver.
	Next, using a thin screwdriver or tweezers, you should carefully pull out the retaining ring.
	Without strong movements, you need to knock out the rod from the shock absorber housing.

STEP 3. Draining the oil and washing the housing.

	Carefully turn the housing over and drain the oil.
	Then the inside of the case should be thoroughly washed with kerosene and wiped with a clean cloth.

STEP 4. Removal of the oil seal holder.

	Fix the rod assembly in a vise.
	Unscrew the rod nut with an open-end wrench.
	Remove the piston with a set of washers from the rod, remembering the sequence of their location. For convenience, a plastic clamp or wire can be passed through the entire set, which will prevent the washers from being rearranged among themselves.
	Carefully remove the oil seal holder.

STEP 5. Repair / replacement of the old oil seal with a new one

	First you needBE VERY CAREFULremove the anther, fitting it with a screwdriver from below along the contour, for thorough cleaning and washing with kerosene.
	If there is any damage to the rubber ring, it must be replaced with a new similar oil-resistant ring.
	Next, you should pull out the rubber gasket, squeezing it with your fingers, and pull out the metal washer.
	Pull out the split washer and the oil seal. Note.If there is no damage, after cleaning, you can return the part to its previous place. Otherwise, replace it.

IMPORTANTLY!After replacing a defective part of the shock absorber, be sure to check the condition of the entire shock absorberpendants.

How to check the efficiency of the shock absorber

There are two ways to check the shock absorber for operability: the first is visual (without removing it from the car), the second is detailed (thorough inspection with disassembly).

The first option involves a simple inspection of the device and carrying out minimal manipulations to check the shock absorber (for example, it is enough to press the wing a few times orbumperauto to determine shock absorber malfunction).

In the second case, the following procedure is carried out:

• the shock absorber is dismantled;
• the shock absorber rod is removed, the removed device is kept in the installation position.
  Note.The rod of the rack should move along the entire length of the stroke equally smoothly and without jerks;
• the surface of the rod is inspected for any damage, distortions;
• the condition and fit of the sealing rubber stoppers of the shock absorber is checked. They must sit firmly in the mounting holes, without cracks or damage.
  Note.Damaged rubber plugs can be the cause of knocking noises while driving.

Importantly!The shock absorber is considered to be in good condition, if the traces of leakage of the damping fluid are within the limits between the upper ring of the stem seal and the lower cup of the spring.
The flow of liquid in a small amount even has a positive effect, since the sealing ring is lubricated, which increases its service life.

Safety techniques during repair work

In order for the repair to be as effective as possible and, most importantly, safely, the following rules should be followed:

1. Carry out maintenance in a room with good lighting and ventilation;
2. Do not smoke or use an open flame in the room where repairs are carried out;
3. Use gloves when working and safety glasses when inspecting the "bottom" of the car
4. Protect exposed areas of the skin from ingress of oils (especially used oils). In case of contact, use a soapy solution as soon as possible;
5. It is forbidden to use gasoline, diesel fuel and solvents for cleaning hands;
6. If you need to lift the car, free the trunk from unnecessary items.

Whether to repair the shock absorber yourself or contact an auto repair shop is up to you. In one case or another, you will need quality spare parts. In our online store, you can buy shock absorbers and other original spare parts with an official manufacturer's warranty. Make a choice yourself, using a convenient filter, or contact the experts of Vnedorognik.ua, who will be happy to answer all your questions.