OEM 2003 Toyota Land Cruiser Shock Absorber

2003 Toyota Land Cruiser Parts Questions & Experts Answers

• Q: How to service and repair the rear shock absorber on 2003 Toyota Land Cruiser?

  A: Service and repair operations on the rear shock absorber start by taking off both rear wheels while applying the necessary torque of 131 Nm (1,340 kgf-cm, 97 ft. lbs.). First secure the rear axle housing with a jack and remove the shock absorber by breaking the bolt connection between housing and absorber with 98 Nm (1,000 kgf-cm, 72 ft. lbs.). The procedure requires you to remove the shock absorber by first loosening a nut with 69 Nm (704 kgf-cm, 51 ft. lbs.) torque while holding the piston rod. Following the nut removal you should take out two retainers, cushion and shock absorber assembly before moving on to separately remove the retainers and cushion from the shock absorber. Disconnect the stabilizer bar brackets on both sides by unfastening four 18 Nm (185 kgf-cm, 13 ft. lbs.) bolts. Proceed to the lateral control rod by removing its nut, washer, and bolt with a torque of 150 Nm (1,530 kgf-cm, 111 ft. lbs.), before torquing the nut and bolt after stabilizing the suspension during installation. Start the procedure by disconnecting the breather hose before proceeding with a methodical lowering of the axle housing to prevent damage to brake line and parking brake cable. Remove the coil spring and insulator. Install the coil spring end correctly and disconnect the bolt while removing the follow spring from the frame after tightening it to a torque of 28 Nm (290 kgf-cm, 21 ft. lbs.). To ensure the shock absorber works properly, extend and compress its rod and check for any abnormal resistance and unusual sounds before making replacements if needed. To safely discard a shock absorber make a 2 to 3 mm (0.079 - 0.118 inch) hole to release its gas content but maintain safety by watching for loose particles because the gas lacks smell or poisonous or colored characteristics. The required tools for bushing installation and removal include Special Service Tools 09710-00061 (09710-14013), 09710-07031 (09710-28012) and 09951-07100 (09950-70010) that need a press. The reverse sequence used for removal is applied for completing shock absorber installation.