Damper Strut

1. Check for oil leakage.
2. Move the piston rod up and down to check it operates smoothly without any binding.
3. 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 [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: P₂ .

     Fig 1: Setting Dial Gauge At End Of Rod

     Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.

The free play is determined by the following equation:

Play = P1, P2 

Standard of play: 

Less than 0.8 mm (0.031 in) 

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