Shock absorber concertina thing - should it clip into the lower bump stop?

[richaber]

And if it should (it looks like there is a groove for it to clip in to), how on earth do you get it in there??

[sparky Paul]

On the original OEM parts, the dust cover bellows slide over the top part of the shock absorber body and is retained in place by a shoulder. It should extend down far enough to clip over the shocker end cap.

Some aftermarket shock absorbers are slightly different diameters and don't mate properly with the original covers - the answer is to fit covers which match up with the new shock absorbers, or tyrap them in place if necessary.

[richaber]

Ok thanks. So do you need a spring compressor to get them on?

[sparky Paul]

Ok thanks. So do you need a spring compressor to get them on?

Yes, you have to totally dismantle the leg to change them. 

[richaber]

they are just flopping about at the moment, I think the garage has been lazy in not clipping them down into the bump stop. I was wondering if I could compress the spring enough by jacking up the hub under the weight of the car... It's going back in next week cos of a hole in nearside inner cv gaiter. Seems one thing after another lately...will point out the shock absorber gaiter  then.. Unless I do it my self before then.

[sparky Paul]

You should be able to just put them down over the shock absorber - they should clip over a lip and hold, but if the shaockers have been changed in the past and the covers don't fit properly, they may need securing.

[richaber]

It's quite a stretch and a tight fit, awkward to get your fingers in between the coils of the spring. Might have a go later. Thanks for your patient support.