Damper Strut

Check for oil leakage.

Move the piston rod up and down to check that it operates smoothly without any binding.

Play of piston rod

• Measure the play as follows:

Fix outer shell and fully extend the rod. Set a dial gauge at the end of rod: L [10 mm (0.39 in)], then apply a force of W [20 N (2 kgf, 4 lb)] to threaded portion. With the force of 20 N (2 kgf, 4 lb) applied, read dial gauge indication: P₁ . Apply a force of 20 N (2 kgf, 4 lb) in the opposite direction of "W", then read dial gauge indication: P ₂ .

Fig 1: Measuring Piston Rod Play

Courtesy of SAAB-SCANIA OF AMERICA, INC.

Limit of play (P ₁  + P ₂  ): 

0.8 mm (0.031 in) 

If the play is greater than limit, replace the strut.