Hombre XS Space Cab L4-2.2L CPC (1997)
Suspension Strut / Shock Absorber: Component Tests and General Diagnostics
NOTE: Purging air from non-spiral groove shock absorbers is not necessary. These shock absorbers have a gas-filled cell in their reservoirs (as opposed
to the air-filled cell in the spiral groove shock absorber reservoirs).
1. Place the shock absorber in a vise with jaws clamped on the shock absorber's top mounting stud and do the following.
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Shock absorber should be held vertically in the vise with the bottom end up.
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Do not clamp vise jaws on the shock absorber's upper stem threads or reservoir.
2. Pump the shock absorber at various rates of speed and observe the rebound force.
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Rebound force is normally stronger than compression force (approximately two to one).
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Rebound force should be smooth and constant for each stroke rate.
3. Compare with a good shock absorber.
4. If one of the following are observed, replace the shock absorber.
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A skip or lag at reversal near mid-stroke.
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A seize (except at the extreme ends of travel).
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A noise (grunt or squeal) after completing one full stroke in both directions.
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A clicking noise at fast reversal.
