Corrective Procedure

1. To gain access to the upper shock absorber area, remove the interior trim cover. (Figure 3.)





2. Remove the rubber cap, and disconnect the ECS wiring connector. Both are attached to the upper end of the shock absorber's piston rod. (Figure 4.)





3. Measure the threaded portion of the upper end of the piston rod. It should measure 13.8 + 0.5 mm. If it measures 10.8 +/- 0.5 mm, the upper spacer may be seated offcenter from the piston rod. (Figure 5.)





4. For removing and reseating the spacer, use a pair of channel lock pliers to grasp the upper washer. Using hand tools (do not use impact tools), remove the shock absorber locknut and washer to expose the spacer. (Figure 6.)

WARNING:
While the upper locknut is removed, do not allow the piston rod end to sink into the center hole, and do not disturb or raise the vehicle.





5. Remove the spacer and wipe it clean using a shop towel.

6. Apply the gasket adhesive to the underside of the spacer and reinstall the spacer, centered, onto the rubber bushing underneath it. (Figure 7)





7. Using an open-end wrench, reinstall the upper washer and the new locknut onto the end of the shock absorber piston rod. To help tighten the new locknut, hold the upper washer with channel-lock pliers. Torque the locknut to 14-18 ft.lbs. (Figure 8)


8. Re-measure the threaded end of the piston rod. With the spacer properly installed, the measurement should be 13.8 +/- 0.5 mm. If the measurement is not as specified, observe the spacer to see if it has shifted to off-center. If the spacer has shifted, repeat steps 4-8.

9. If the measurement is now correct, road test the vehicle. If the tapping noise is still present, remove and replace the shock absorber, collar, and upper locknut. Be sure to utilize the new part numbers listed below when ordering the shock absorber and collar.