ABS AUDI A4 1998 B5 / 1.G Suspension Rear Struts Remove And Install Workshop Manual
Page 3 of 18
42-25
 
    
Installing  
Note:  
When installing, make sure that the retaining lugs engage properly. 
CAUTION! 
The bonded rubber bushings can only be turned to a limited extent. 
The bolted connections between the shock absorbers and the rear 
axle should therefore only be tightened when the vehicle is standing 
on the ground. Otherwise the bonded rubber bushings will be 
subjected to a torsional stress resulting in shortened service life  -  Turn suspension strut until retaining lugs are positioned above 
recesses. 
-  Pull suspension strut downward out of its mount.
-  Install in reverse order of removal.
-  Replace gasket on upper spring plate. Thoroughly clean all sealing 
surfaces 
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Page 7 of 18
42-28
 
  
CAUTION! 
Do not damage the surface of the spring when 
driving on the lower spring base - 19 - and the 
spring retainer - 18 - during assembly.  18 - 
Spring retainer 
19 - 
Lower spring base 
20 - 
Lower spring seat 
21 - 
Gas shock absorber 
Different versions   parts catalog 
microfiche Can be replaced individuallySupplied as replacement part with lower 
spring retainer pressed on Different versions depending on 
suspension version   vehicle data label, page 42
-5 
Malfunctioning shock absorbers must be 
disposed of properly 
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Page 8 of 18
42-29
 
  
  Checking:
 - Compress shock absorber by hand. Do 
not press piston rod with excessive force 
against end stop otherwise valves could 
be damaged. 
Piston rod must move evenly and smoothly 
over entire stroke 
  - Release piston rod.Piston rod returns automatically back to 
starting position if gas charge is adequate Visually inspect shock absorber mount for 
settling and position of circlip on shock 
absorber piston rod should be checked   
Special Information binder 
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Page 9 of 18
42-30
      
Disassembling and assembling suspension 
strut  
     
Note:  
     Pay attention to the different components used in 
the various suspension versions (e.g. "Standard", 
"Sport" and "Heavy Duty" suspensions). 
     
Disassembling 
     
-  Clamp VAG1752/2 spring mounting tool in 
vise. 
    
-  Install shock absorber into VAG1752/2 spring mounting tool.
-  Use screwdriver to pry out cap   page 42
-26
 , item -1-.
    
WARNING! 
Make sure the coil spring is seated correctly in the VAG1752/3 -  Place VAG1752/1 spring compressor onto coil spring.
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Page 11 of 18
42-31
 
    
Assembling 
Note:  
The left and right-side suspension struts are identical parts.  -  Compress coil spring using VAG1752/1 spring compressor until upper 
spring retainer is free. 
-  Remove self-locking nut from piston rod (counter hold using hex 
wrench). 
-  Remove appropriate components.
    
Clamp shock absorber in VAG1752/2 spring mounting tool.  
  
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Page 12 of 18
42-32
 
    
-  Align lower spring base and spring retainer in direction of shock 
absorber eye, as illustrated. 
-  Install compressed coil spring.
End of spring coil must lie against stop on spring retainer (arrow). 
-  Install protective cap, boot, boot mounting ring, auxiliary spring, ring, 
mounting ring and spacer tube. 
-  Install upper spring base. 
    
End of coil spring ("Federanfang") must lie against recess of upper 
spring base (arrow). 
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Page 16 of 18
42-36
 
    
Axis -C- of cap is offset 90  from axis -A- of shock absorber eye.  
Note:  
Lubricate O-ring with grease G 000 405 A2 before installing cap. 
CAUTION! 
Part numbers are listed here for reference only. Always check with 
your Parts department for the latest information. -  Install cap onto upper spring retainer.
    
-  Use special tools to press in cap.
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