How to Replace Shock Absorbers of your Car
A shock absorber is a mechanical device attached below the body of the car that dampens the impact of bumps and shocks experienced on the road. Shock absorbers are designed to absorb energy; convert this unwanted energy into heat and then dissipate it away. All shock absorbers have a limited life span as they get worn out soon and need to be replaced on a regular basis. Contrary to the popular belief, the maintenance and replacement of the automobile shock absorbers is very easy.
Instructions
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1
Purchase or arrange a jack having enough strength to lift your vehicle. Decide which pair of shocks you want to replace first, the back side or the front side. Use the jack to lift your vehicle off the ground completely so that the tires go free of the ground. Relieve any forms of tension on the wheels or the suspension system. Also make sure you have enough space to slide beneath the car easily. Use proper safety procedures and have two fail safe lifters on each side of the car in case the hydraulic system of the jack accidently fails. Use a spanner to remove the nuts attached on the front side of tires and then remove the wheels. Memorize the correct order of the nuts and bolts as they needs to be placed back in the same sequence. If they are rusty use a rust removing agent such as WD-40 and then soften them with the help of a lubricant.
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2
Analyze the underside of the shock absorber and figure what size of spanner is needed for removing the bolts. Use a spanner or wrench to unfasten the bolts connected to the shock absorber. Now use a torch to figure out the type of tools you will need for the top end of the shock absorber. Follow the same procedure for the top side of the shock to disconnect the shock absorber completely from the car body.
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3
Attach the rubber cushions that must have come with your new pair of shock absorbers to the threaded rod. Remove the plastic straps from the new pair of shocks and install them in the same slot with the same bolts and nuts. Tighten the screws as hard as you can. Now put the wheels back in their slot and tighten them hard as well. Follow the same procedure for the other side of the vehicle to replace the other shock absorber.
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