Changing a front shock absorber.

To make the installation easier to understand, we will change the shock absorber of a car which is being built.

Undo the shock absorber's rear and front fixing nuts.

Remove the shock absorber support's bolts.

It is now possible to unscrew completely the rear fixing nut. Remove and put aside the washer. Now you can lift off the shock absorber.

You can now fully undo the front support nut.

Remove the support.

Check that the shim is in place.

Wipe the shock absorber mount, the front one too.

Lightly grease the shock absorber mounts.

Wipe the front support cover as a waterproof joint will be fitted.

Take the new shock absorber, remember the reference R32 02 is for the front.

Attention, the hydraulic shock absorber must be fitted in the right way.

Gently open the shock absorber, you will see a label.

Just below you will see a small dome. This indicates the oil reservoir.

The oil reservoir must be at the lowest point, which is the fixed support on the chassis.

Fit the washer and screw the nut into place without fully tightening it.

Apply some waterproof joint paste to the end of the suspension arm. This will ensure that water does not get at the bearings.

The front support cover can now be installed, be careful how you mount it.

The support is towards the rear.

Take the shock absorber. Turn it slightly and fit the fixing washer and nut.

Tighten the nut, but not fully.

By security apply thread sealant to all the bolts.

Once the support cover is in place, tighten all the nuts.

You will notice once the shock absorber is installed, that the oil reservoir is at the lowest point.

This type of shock absorber must be correctly installed otherwise it will not function correctly.