Off-Vehicle Checks

1. Remove spring, mount assembly, and dust shield assembly from the strut. Clamp strut dampner RIGHT SIDE UP in vise.

Important: DO NOT clamp on the reservoir tube, rod, or mounting threads.

2. Stroke the strut damper by hand several times at various rates of speed and observe resistance. Resistance should be smooth and constant.

Important:
^ Some dampers have a gas charge preload. It may be very difficult to compress these strut dampers by hand. The strut rod will tend to extend on its own.
^ DO NOT compress the strut such that the shoulder of the strut rod goes past the strut rod seal, or the rod bottoms out inside of the strut. This may damage components inside the strut or result in discharge of fluid.

3. Compare with a known, good strut dampner.
4. It is normal to detect a hissing noise. The following are considered abnormal and reason for replacement:
^ A seize (except at either extreme of travel).
^ A noise such as a grunt or squeal after completing one to three full strokes in both directions.
^ A clicking noise at fast reversal.
^ Fluid leakage.