Common Faults
Gas springs lose their nitrogen over time causing the sphere to fill with mineral fluid. This produces these problems :-
• Hard bouncy ride
• Rear jacked up while running and driving
• Rear of car will drop overnight or if left for short periods of time
Gas springs should always be replaced as a pair for best results.
Tools required
• Long nose pliers
• Swan neck pliers
• 7/16” pipe spanner
• 7/16” combination spanner
• 2 x screwdrivers - Philips and flat
• Large oil filter strap
• Copper hammer
• Large chisel
• Drain bucket
Step 1
De-pressurise hydraulic system: With ignition on, pump brake pedal until brake pressure warning lights are on and flashing.
Step 2
With car sitting on a flat surface, undo rear suspension bleed nipple (early models have bleed nipples on either side on the rear). These are located in front of the rear wheels in the inner sills. Once fluid has drained tighten bleed nipple.
Step 3
In Boot/ Trunk
Remove all screws on carpet back panel. Remove battery switch knob and surround. Remove push stud straps. Panel will then be free to remove from boot/ trunk.
Step 4
Tap gas spring with hammer and chisel in an anti-clockwise direction until it starts to move. Using oil filter strap undo the sphere, then spin off by hand. Use a rag to wipe up excess fluid.
Step 5
Make sure gas spring housing is clean.
Step 6
Apply rubber grease to seal provided (this will help keep the seal in place when fitting the gas spring)
Step 7
Fit seal into recess in clean housing.
Place gas spring into housing and screw in clockwise (making sure not to disturb the seal). Take time with this as the seal must be located properly.
Tighten gas spring with oil filter strap.
Step 8
Check mineral fluid levels before starting.
Step 9
Start car, warning lights should extinguish in a few seconds and rear of car should rise. The suspension is self-bleed so no need for bleeding. Re-check mineral fluid level after first drive.
Step 10
Check for leaks. Refit boot/trunk carpet rear panel. Refit battery switch surround and knob.
Note
If your car is an active ride model (after 1990) the principle is the same but the housing is different. This is the housing you will see.