Damper Strut

Check for oil leakage.
Move the piston rod up and down to check 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 the rod: L [.39" (10 mm)], then apply a force of W [20 N (2 kg, 4 lb)], threaded portion. With the force of 20 N (2 kg, 4 lb) applied, read dial gauge indication: P₁ . Apply a force of 20 N (2 kg, 4 lb) in the opposite direction of "W", then read dial gauge indication: P₂ . See Fig 1. The free play is determined by the following equation:

Play = P ₁ , P ₂

If the play is greater, replace the strut. See LIMIT OF PLAY SPECIFICATION

Fig 1: Setting Dial Gauge At End Of Rod

Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.

LIMIT OF PLAY SPECIFICATION

Application	Specification
Limit Of Play	Less Than .028" (.7 mm)