2. Inspect the shock absorber for fluid leaks, dents, cracks and other visible signs of damage. Inspect the spring for chips or cracks in the coating (such defects appear when the spring is susceptible to corrosion). Examine the spring seats for hardening and deformation. Before disassembling the shock absorber to replace its parts, find out about the availability of spare parts, and also inquire about the cost of the restored unit.
Warning: Before disassembling the front suspension strut, it is necessary to install a device to fix the spring in a compressed state. Do not try to perform the procedure using any other method. Sudden release of the spring may cause vehicle damage and personal injury. device for compressing the spring, following the accompanying instructions. After removing the spring with the compression tool installed, place it in an isolated, safe location.
3. Remove the pinch bolt that secures the shackle to the shock absorber (see illustration). Drive a chisel or screwdriver into the gap to slightly open the earring. Remove the shackle from the shock absorber.
3.3. Unscrew the nut and remove the pinch bolt from the shackle, then slightly wedge the shackle using a chisel or large screwdriver, inserting the tool into the gap
4. In accordance with the accompanying instructions, install the device (which is available for free sale and can also be rented) and compress the spring with it so that the shock absorber is unloaded (see illustration).
3.4. Install a spring compression device on the shock absorber strut
Caution: When tightening the compression device, be careful not to damage the anti-corrosion coating on the spring.
5. Unscrew the nut located on top of the shock absorber (see illustration).
3.5. Compressing the spring, unscrew the nut located on top of the shock absorber strut (fix the shock absorber rod by inserting a hex key into it)
6. Remove the top mounting plate. spring and bottom plate (see illustrations).
3.6a. Remove the top plate, noting its original location on the end of the spring...
3.6b...then remove the spring from the bottom plate, also noting the original location of its end in the plate
7. Reassemble the shock absorber in the reverse order of disassembly. Install the nut on the upper end and tighten it to the required torque.
8. Loosen the compression tool and remove it from the spring.
9. Install the shackle into the base of the shock absorber strut. Install the pinch bolt and nut and tighten the fasteners to the required torque.
10. Install the rack on the car (see subsection 2).