Shock Absorbers, Checking on Shock Tester

Shock Absorbers, Checking on Shock Tester

Shock absorbers can be checked while installed using the shock tester (shock absorber testing device). The damping effect can be evaluated based on the dial reading or print-out.

Special tools, testers and auxiliary items required

• Boge shock tester or

• Sachs shock tester (V.A.G 1975) or

• Suspension tester (VAS 1990S)

• Temperature +10 to +40 °C.

• Driver in vehicle.

• Tire pressure OK.

• Drive vehicle straight onto center of wheel contact plates.

• Front wheels in straight position.

• Parking not engaged, foot brake not activated.

Threshold

Shock absorber condition can only be judged as follows:

• Sufficient damping effect.

or

• Insufficient damping effect.

• Intermediate values for reduced damping performance cannot be read out.

• A prognosis on service life is not permitted.

• Measured values that occur with the involvement of the suspension travel end stops are incorrect.

The following values apply only to the test stands named above. If the specified values are exceeded, the shock absorber action has weakened enough that a replacement is recommended.

Example:






Threshold = 70

• - a - = greater than 70: Insufficient damping effect

• - a - = less than 70: Sufficient damping effect

The shock absorber combination installed in the vehicle is indicated by the corresponding PR number on the vehicle data plate.

PR number explanation => [ Explanations of Production Control Numbers ] Application and ID.

Threshold - a - in mm

• If the readout value is greater than the limit value - a - (table value) : Damping effect insufficient => Replace shock absorber.

• If the readout value is less than the limit value - a - (table value) : Damping effect sufficient => Shock absorber does not need to be replaced.