Caution! Do not loosen the shock absorber rod nut if the shock absorber strut coil spring is not clamped properly. The spring is under significant compression. In addition, it will be impossible to reinstall a spring that has been removed without first securing it with clamps.
In addition to the spring clamps, you will need a VW524 key to unscrew the slotted nut, and a 40-201A tool to unscrew the screw cap on the shock absorber rod. If you don't have these tools, you can use a large gas wrench.
1. Remove the shock absorber strut.
2. Clamp the shock absorber strut at the level of the steering knuckle arm mount in a vice, placing wooden blocks on the jaws.
3. Place the clamps on the coil spring and squeeze it slightly. To prevent the clamps from slipping, wrap the corresponding turns with tape (see illustration).
4. Loosen the spline nut on the upper end of the shock absorber strut. Hold the shock absorber rod from turning with a socket wrench.
5. Remove the spring together with the bearing and mounting cups.
6. Unscrew the screw cap of the shock absorber.
7. Remove the shock absorber (see illustration).
The manufacturer installs shock absorbers filled with oil. In this case, drain the oil and clean the shock absorber cylinder.
8. Install a new dry shock absorber.
The assembly procedure for the shock absorber strut is the opposite of disassembly.
Caution: The color marking on the coil spring must face downwards.
Attention! The outer ring of the front wheel hub bearing is pressed into the steering knuckle, and the inner ring is pressed into the hub. This means that the new bearing cannot be "hammered" into place using a hammer. We recommend that the replacement of the hub bearing be entrusted to a workshop that has the appropriate press.