Replacing the front shock absorber

A spring compressor is mandatory for this work (with the strut assembly removed). You will need at least two spring compressors, preferably three. Do not loosen the slotted nut at the top of the shock absorber piston rod without a spring compressor, because the spring is under high preload. Otherwise the strut components will fly apart like an explosion, creating a serious risk of injury!

In addition, an uncompressed spring can no longer be installed. Spring compressors are available from auto parts stores. The following special tools are also required: wrench VW 524 for loosening the slotted nut, and tool 40-201 A for loosening the threaded cap above the shock absorber. If you do not have them, use a large pipe wrench as a substitute.

PROCEDURE

Remove the strut assembly (see previous section).

Clamp the strut assembly in a vise at the height of the steering knuckle arm, using wooden blocks. Never clamp it on the cylindrical section, or you will crush the strut.

Install the spring compressor on the spring coils and compress the spring slightly.

To prevent the spring compressor from slipping, wrap the coils with adhesive tape if necessary.

Now loosen the slotted nut at the top of the strut assembly. Hold the shock absorber piston rod with a wrench.

Remove the spring together with the strut mount bearing and additional components.

Remove the threaded cap at the top of the shock absorber.

Pull out the shock absorber.

Factory-fitted shock absorbers are fluid-filled. In this case, drain the old fluid from the shock absorber (special waste!) and clean the piston rod.

Install a new shock absorber cartridge without fluid.

For the installation sequence of components, see the illustration at the top right. Note that the colored marking on the springs indicates the bottom.

Tightening torques: shock absorber cartridge threaded cap: 150 N·m; slotted nut on piston rod: 50 N·m.