Body - Rear Gate Stay (Liftgate Shock) Diagnosis
NUMBER: 12-85-05DATE: 02/25/05
APPLICABILITY:
1998~2002MY Forester
2000~current MY Legacy/Outback Wagon
2002~current MY Impreza Wagon
SUBJECT:
Rear Gate Stay Diagnosis
INTRODUCTION
This bulletin provides information to properly diagnosis the rear gate stays and also avoids unnecessary re~acement of non-failed stays.
REPAIR PROCEDURES/INFORMATION
Visual inspection
Check the lower end of the rear gate stay for foreign material. If foreign material (as an example, sand particle) gets lodged at the end of the cylinder it will cause the gas within the cylinder to leak (see Figure 1). If foreign material is found lodged at the end of the cylinder, the cylinder should be replaced.
Note:
Read all cautions prior to diagnosing and proper disposal as listed in the applicable service manual.
Measurement check
If you cannot determine which stay may have leaked, they can be checked separately using the following method. A push-pull or brake pedal effort gauge should be used. Each stay needs to be checked individually.
Note:
If using a brake pedal effort gauge, it is advisable to put duct tape on the gauge on the area that will come in contact with the vehicle. Doing so will protect the painted surface of the vehicle's rear gate.
Disconnect one stay (refer to the applicable service manual at a time. Be sure to zero the needle or gauge on your measuring device before proceeding with any testing. Using the brake pedal effort gauge, measure the load by placing the gauge at the lower edge of the rear gate (see Figure 2). Push up on the rear gate using the gauge and stop when the gate edge is parallel (horizontal) with the rear gate hinge. Record your measurement (see figure 2). Compare your measurements with the ones on the chart to determine if replacement is necessary. If the measurement is within specification, reinstall the removed stay and remove the opposite one.
Repeat the measuring procedure. If both stays are within specification no replacement is necessary.
This chart provides specifications to determine if the rear gate stay(s) has failed.
Note:
Above values will vary slightly depending upon ambient temperatures. Faxed values listed are that of a stay where the gas has leaked out completely. Values will vary depending upon the amount of remaining gas in the cylinder.
CLAIM REIMBURSEMENT/WARRANTY INFORMATION
For vehicles within the Basic New Car Limited Warranty period, refer to the Warranty Labor Time guide for claim information.
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