OPTIMISING PERFORMANCE FOR SHOCKS
Quality shock absorbers are safety critical and ensuring that they are fitted correctly helps optimise their lifespan . BOGE shares the best practices for shock absorbers .
Shock absorbers maintain tyre-to road adhesion for good grip and braking . If they , or other suspension components are not working , contact is compromised which can result in longer braking distances and poor handling . This is especially dangerous during critical avoidance manoeuvres .
Furthermore , vehicle safety systems like the anti-lock braking system ( ABS ) and traction control can only function perfectly if all suspension elements are in good working order . When replacing shock absorbers , all other parts of the system should therefore be thoroughly inspected for wear .
CHECK EVERYTHING
The condition of ball joints and rubber-to-metal components such as control arm bushes and suspension top mounts should be checked before dismantling . Wear to any of these areas can lead to excessive play in the joints , subjecting the shock absorber piston rod to bending stresses that are beyond its design limits . keep in mind that there are several symptoms that are indicative that shock absorbers should be replaced :
• “ Bottoming out ” of shock absorber
• Rattling noise as a result of worn shock absorbers or absorber mounts
• Worn piston rod , seals or valves
• Shock absorber action is too soft or firm could be indicative that it is incorrect for the vehicle
• Poor road behaviour as the damping action has deteriorated
• Unusual tyre wear
When replacing shock absorbers it is best to replace them in pairs alongside the ancillary items ( spring assisters and gaiters ). This is because , the damping variation between a new and used shock absorbers will become very apparent during critical times like avoidance manoeuvres .
TRANSPORT AND STORAGE TIPS
If moved or stored in a horizontal position , air may reach the working area of double-tube shock absorbers . This air can easily be expelled by compressing and extending the shock absorber several times with the piston rod at the top . The shock absorber can also “ bleed itself ” automatically after being fitted into the vehicle correctly , and driven for a short time .
One possible consequence is that the threaded pin suffers a fatigue fracture where it joins the piston rod . Another problem is side loading of the piston rod rapidly wearing both its chromium plating and its oil seal – causing the shock absorber to leak .
INSTALLING AND SECURING SHOCK ABSORBERS
A regular suspension test is recommended for every 12,500 miles that the vehicle travels to ensure that they are working properly . However , it is important to
THE BOGE OFFERING
BOGE has been a pioneer in shock absorber technology for over 86 years . The OE quality of BOGE shock absorbers enables simple replacement with precision parts and proves the assurance of quality , comfort and durability .
BOGE offers more than 2,700 OE shock absorbers and over 300 fitting kits through FPS . Available via same / next-day delivery , these components are catalogued on the F : Drive and MAM Autocat . For more information , please speak to your local FPS representative .
VITAL NEWS ISSUE 49 SHOCK ABSORBERS 11