Shock Absorbers, Leaks

Shock absorbers, leaks
Shock absorbers are frequently thought to be leaking and are replaced. Examinations of test conditions and on vehicles have revealed that a large number of shock absorbers are replaced without justification.

Minor fluid excretion ("sweating") at the piston rod seal is not a legitimate reason to replace a shock absorber. An oil moistened shock absorber is OK under the following conditions:





^ Oil excretion (shaded in illustration) is visible, but dull, matte and possibly dry due to dust
^ Oil excretion extends from upper strut connection (piston rod oil seal) no further than the lower spring seat (arrow).

Note: Minor oil excretion is advantageous since the piston rod o# seal gets lubricated, which increases service life. This is true for front and rear shock absorbers.