Struts Or Shock Absorbers Weak - GMC chevrolet camaro 2000 Service Manual

Suspension
Measuring Trim Height at Rear Fascia·
1
(Pontiac)
)
349191
1. Calculate the trim heights (2) as measured from
the ground to the bottom of the rear fascia (1)
after each jounce/rebound cycle. Record
your measurement.
2. Verify the trim height measurements. Refer to
Trim Height Specifications.
3. Continue to measure the vehicle trim heights at
the fascia locations shown.
4. Correct any irregular trim height dimensions as
necessary.
Suspension General Diagnosis 3-7
Struts or Shock Absorbers Weak
Important: The single-tube shock absorbers are
highly gas-pressurized. The shock ab.sorbers require a
forceof 445 N (100 lb) in order to initiate movement
of the shock absorber rod. Do NOT dent or puncture
the shock absorber assemblies.
1. Test and adjust the tire pressures to those
pressures shown on the tire placard.
2. Notice the load conditions in effect when the
vehicle is driven under normal conditions.
3. If practical, ride. with the owner in order to be sure
that you understand the problem before ·
proceeding to the next step.
4. Test each shock a.bsorber in turn by quickly
pushing down, then lifting up, on the corner of the
bumper nearest to the shock absorber which
you ace testing.
4.1. Use the same amount of effort on each test
and notice the resistance on compression
and rebound.
4.2. Repeat this test on a similar vehicle having
acceptable ride quality. The shock
absorbers on both vehicles should provide
the same feeling of resistance. If you
notice much difference between the
two vehicles, continue with the next step.
5. Support the vehicle in order to expose the shock
mounts.
6. Remove the shock absorber assemblies.
Caution: The shock absorbers are highly
pressurized. Be sure to properly disassemble
module or personal injury could result.
7. Disassemble the plastic dust tube.
8. Remove the rod washer from the shock absorber.
Important: Do not fully compress the shock
absorber. Shock absorbers are highly gas-charged
and will extend when released.
9. Turn the shock absorber so that the lower mount
is up and the upper mount is down. Compress the
shock absorber against the ground at various
rates of speed through approximately one-half of
the length of the exposed chromed shock
absorber rod:
• Rear - 75 mm (3 in)
• Front - 50 mm (2 in)
10. · Compare the right and the left shock absorbers
for compression resistance and rebound speed:
• The right and the left shock absorbers
should feel comparable.
• Differences between the front and the rear
shock absorbers are normal.
• If you are doubtful about the condition of any
shock absorber, compare with a shock
absorber known to be good.