How to Disassemble a Type 2 Coilover for Parts Replacement
Step-by-Step Guide: Coilover Disassembly
Coilovers are a crucial component in a vehicle’s suspension system, providing adjustable ride height and damping characteristics. Over time, or for performance upgrades, it may be necessary to perform a coilover disassembly to replace parts like springs, dampers, or mounts. Here’s a detailed guide on how to dismantle a coilover step-by-step:
Tools and Preparation
Before starting, gather the necessary tools:
- Open-ended wrenches
- Steel spanner wrenches (or flat head screwdriver and mallet)
- Socket set
- Rubber mallet
- Safety gloves and goggles (for protection)
Once you have safely removed the coilover from your vehicle place it on a flat and stable surface to begin disassembly.
Step 1: Removing the Damper Knob and Top Hat Nut
- Remove Damper Knob: Use an open-ended wrench to turn the damper knob counterclockwise and remove it.
- Release Top Hat Nut: Use a wrench to loosen and remove the top hat nut that secures the top hat (upper mount) to the shock absorber.
Step 2: Removing the Top Hat and Spring
- Take Off Top Hat and Spring: Once the top hat nut is removed, carefully lift off the top hat along with the spring, and dust boot from the coilover assembly.
Step 3: Remove the Lower Mount
- Remove Lower Mount: Use steel spanner wrenches to grip and turn the lower mount perch clockwise to unlock the lower mount. Once loose, spin the lower mount counterclockwise to remove it from the shock body.
Step 4: Removing Spring Perches
- Remove Lower Mount Perch: With the lower mount removed, proceed to take off the lower mount perch from the coilover assembly.
Step 5: Remove Bump Stop and Release the Shoulder Bushing
- Slide Bump Stop: Slide the bump stop toward the damper to access the metal shoulder bushing beneath.
- Release Shoulder Bushing: Position an open-ended wrench over the shoulder bushing and gently tap it with a rubber mallet away from the shock to release it. Ensure to strike perpendicular to avoid damaging the bushing.
- Remove Bump Stop: Now that the shoulder bushing is removed, slide out the bump stop from the damper.
Step 6: Remove Larger Spring Perches
- Use steel spanner wrenches to unlock and unscrew the larger spring perches from each other and from the shock body. Alternatively, if spanner wrenches aren’t available, carefully use a flat head screwdriver and mallet to release the perches.
Conclusion
By following these step-by-step instructions, you can safely dismantle your coilovers for parts replacement or maintenance, ensuring your vehicle’s suspension system remains in optimal condition. Always refer to your vehicle’s service manual for specific instructions and torque specifications. If you encounter difficulties or lack the necessary tools, seek assistance from a qualified mechanic to ensure the job is done correctly and safely.
