Rear shock absorber — removal and installation (Opel Omega B2)

Attention! If one of the shock absorbers is subject to replacement, the other shock absorber should also be replaced in order not to disturb the suspension geometry.

Removal

1. Block the front wheels, then jack up the rear of the vehicle and support it securely on axle stands.

2. Raise the diagonal arm on the jack to remove the load from the shock absorber.

3. On Sedan models, remove the trunk wall trim panel, then use a screwdriver to pry off the rubber cover of the upper shock absorber mount.

4. On Estate models, fold back the cargo area carpet, then remove the screws and remove the cover to access the upper shock absorber mount.

5. Unscrew the upper mounting nuts and remove the washer and rubber cushions (see illustration).



6. On models equipped with a rear damper adjuster, reach under the rear wheel arch and release the air pressure through the valve in the shock absorber body. Release the clamp and disconnect the pressure tube from the shock absorber.

7. Lower the diagonal arm on the jack, then unscrew the lower mounting bolt with washer and remove the shock absorber (see illustrations).







8. Inspect the shock absorber for signs of wear, damage and deformation. Check the condition of the rubber components. Replace components as necessary.

9. Inspect the shock absorber for leaks. Check the condition of the shock absorber rod and its housing. Set the unit in a vertical position and check its operation by moving the rod to its full stroke, and then several times to a short stroke (50-100 mm). In both cases, the resistance should be smooth and the same. If the piston moves jerkily or the elasticity of the shock absorber changed during the test, and if there is any visible sign of wear, replace the shock absorber.

10. If you are installing a new shock absorber, push the shock absorber rod all the way into the housing before assembly, then move it through its full stroke three to four times.

Installation

11. Place the shock absorber on the trailing arm and insert the lower mount bolt. Make sure the bushing is aligned with the recess in the lower mount.

12. Raise the diagonal arm on the jack and position the top end of the shock absorber against the mount.

13. On models with a rear damper adjuster, apply some compressed air to the shock absorber. The exact pressure is not specified by the manufacturer, but it is recommended to fill the unit until it comes out of the upper mount. Install the pressure tube onto the shock absorber valve and secure it with a clamp. Make sure that the pressure tube does not become entangled with adjacent suspension components.

14. Install the upper mount rubber pads and washer. Install the new mounting nut and tighten it to the torque specified in the Specifications.

15. Tighten the lower shock absorber mounting bolt to the specified tightening torque Specifications.

16. On Station Wagon models, install the cover panel and secure it with screws.

17. On Sedan models, install the rubber cover onto the top end of the shock absorber.

Information taken from the website opelbook.ru

18. Install the wheels and lower the car to the ground.

19. Check the rear suspension stiffness adjuster.