A8 Quattro Sedan V8-4.2L (AUX) (2001)
Suspension Strut / Shock Absorber: Service and Repair
Rear
Rear Gas-Filled Struts, Depressurizing
A - Depressurizing by drilling
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Clamp gas-filled strut vertically in vise, with piston rod facing down.
WARNING! Wear safety goggles when drilling.
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Drill a hole 3 mm (arrow -A-) through outer tube of strut.
Note: Gas will escape while drilling.
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Continue to drill through the inner tube (approximately 25 mm deep).
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Drill a second hole 0 6 mm (arrow-B-) through outer and inner tubes of strut.
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Hold strut over an appropriate container for catching oil and move piston rod repeatedly through it's entire stroke until no more oil flows out.
B - Opening with a Pipe cutter
WARNING! Wear safety goggles when drilling and cutting.
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Drill a hole 3 mm (arrow -A-) through outer tube of strut or cut through tube wall.
Note: Gas will escape while drilling or cutting.