OEM 2003 Mercury Grand Marquis Shock Absorber

2003 Mercury Grand Marquis Shock Absorber Parts Q&A

• Q: How should gas pressurized shock absorbers be serviced to ensure safety and proper performance on 2003 Mercury Grand Marquis?

  A: Professional servicing of gas pressurized shock absorbers requires strict care due to the uncontrolled extension ability which threatens bodily harm. A spring compressor must be used for shock absorber and spring disassembly procedures because of the intense operational loads. The proper functioning of essential systems depends on suspension fasteners' performance because replacement parts need to match original numbers exactly and torque specifications from assembly must be notably followed for effective retention. The first step involves removing the shock absorber with spring assembly but you should avoid tightening the vise beyond necessary force to prevent shock absorber tube damage. Tag the upper mount as well as the spring and shock absorber for future reassembly orientation. Check the spring part number on the new spring against the part number written on the Vehicle Certification label to verify spring code accuracy. An appropriate spring compressor should compress the spring while you should hold the shock absorber rod to remove and discard the nut. The assembly of upper mount and dust boot should be removed from installation while you extract the spring by using the spring compressor. Additionally use the same marks on new shock absorbers and springs and upper mounts to align them to their original positions. Check the lower and upper spring seats for damage while examining the spring insulator for wear because replacing the upper mount may be required. Examine the spring for any signs of damage before installation because a new spring is required if any damage exists. The mechanic can install the shock absorber into the vise before adding the shock along with the spring compressor onto the strut. After proper alignment of the upper mount and dust boot against the disassembly marks you must install a new nut before eliminating the spring compressor to finish the installation of shock absorber and spring assembly.