Checking Alignment of Front Shock Absorbers

Checking alignment of front shock absorbers

Preliminary work: R and R front shock absorbers. Refer to Service and Repair Service and Repair






4 Bottom control arm
013 Testing and straightening tool
013a Straightening bolt
013b Test plate
013d Testing and straightening pin
013e Washer
013f Hex. nut
013g Arresting screw
38 Front end







Special tools






Note: Extremely high deviation in the alignment of the shock absorber mounting points can lead to excessive shock absorber wear resulting in rumbling noises and leakage at the piston rod seal. In extreme cases this can even negatively affect the driving comfort (suspension harder due to increased friction).

For this reason it is necessary to check and, if necessary, correct the shock absorber alignment following straightening and repair work on the affected front end frame parts.

The shock absorbers can be checked for proper alignment with the axle installed with the vehicle in the design position with the camber and caster adjusted to the specified values.

CAUTION! When removing the shock absorber with the vehicle jacked up and load relieved on the suspension ensure that the piston rod does not turn while loosening the top mount. Since the extension stop in the shock absorber is against the operating piston in this state, the connection between the operating piston and piston rod could loosen This would result in sudden extension of the piston rod and expulsion of the oil in the shock absorber.

Checking

Note: Front wheels must be adjusted to correct camber and caster.

1. Jack up vehicle at front, remove front wheels.






013 Testing and straightening tool
013a Straightening bolt
013b Testing and straightening pin
013c Test sleeve
013d Test plate
013e Washer
013f Hex. nut
013g Arresting screw

2. Fasten testing and straightening tool to top shock absorber mounting point, hold testing and straightening pin (013b) in place with arresting screw (013g) in the lifted position. Position test plate (013d) on bottom control arm.

3. Attach spring compressing tool with compressing plates for front springs and compress front spring until load is relieved on control arm.






4. Simultaneously jack up front suspension with workshop jack at front wheel hub to specified vehicle level (see table).

WARNING! Body must not be lifted off of jack stands!






5. Check alignment with testing and straightening pin (013b), correct, if required. If the pin points to the center of the test plate (013d), this indicates a deviation of 0 mm.