GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Chevrolet 🢒 1998 🢒 Monte Carlo 🢒 Suspension 🢒 Suspension General Diagnosis 🢒 Struts or Shock Absorbers Bench Test
  1. Remove the following components from the strut:
    2. • Remove the spring.
    • Remove the mount assembly.
    • Remove the dust shield assembly.

    Important: Do not clamp on to the following components:

       • Do not clamp on the strut reservoir tube.
       • Do not clamp on the strut rod.
       • Do not clamp on the strut mounting threads.

  2. Place the strut damper right side up in a vise.

    3. Important: Some dampers have a gas charge preload. It may be difficult to compress these strut dampers by hand. The strut rod tends to extend on its own.

    Do not compress the strut so that the shoulder of the strut rod goes past the strut rod seal or the rod will bottom out inside of the strut. This can damage the components inside the strut or result in discharge of fluid.

  3. Stroke the strut damper by hand several times at various rates of speed while observing the resistance. The resistance should be smooth and constant.
  4. Compare the resistance with a known good strut damper.
  5. Some hissing noise is normal. The following examples are considered abnormal conditions:
    6. • A seize (except at either extreme of travel). Replace the strut. Refer to Steering Knuckle with Strut Replacement in Front Suspension.
    • A noise such as a grunt or squeal after completing one to three full strokes in both directions. Replace the strut. Refer to Steering Knuckle with Strut Replacement in Front Suspension.
    • A clicking noise at fast reversal. Replace the strut. Refer to Steering Knuckle with Strut Replacement in Front Suspension.
    • Fluid leakage. Replace the strut. Refer to Steering Knuckle with Strut Replacement in Front Suspension.