Thursday 11 October 2012

Suspension strut

The car's suspension strut combines the coil spring and the shock absorber and it also helps control the wheel when the vehicle goes over uneven surfaces. We disassembled a strut to check its serviceability. First we clamped down the spring using spring compressors. NB take extreme care when working with spring compressors, make sure that it is secure before removing the strut top nut. If the spring accidentally releases it may seriously injure someone or result in death. Once the spring has been compressed securely we loosened the the top strut nut and removed the spring and the top mount. We then checked the shock absorber's dampening ability by pushing it in and out. It should go in and out with the same force resisting its movement. We then checked the seal around the struts shaft for any signs of an oil leak. The shaft was also checked for damage and corrosion.

The strut is serviceable, the shock absorber was not leaking oil and it was working correctly. The spring was in good condition. I would recommend replacing the boot as it is torn, a new boot will protect the strut from dust and inprove its lifespand and serviceablity. I also recommend replacing the support bearing as it worn.