Shock absorber disposal (VW Passat B5)

The gas pressure in a new gas-filled shock absorber reaches 25 bar, so when disposing of a gas-filled shock absorber, be careful and wear protective glasses. There are two methods for disposing of the shock absorber: either by drilling a hole or by cutting the shock absorber body.

Drilling the shock absorber

Drilling locations in the shock absorber housing

• A - hole diameter 3 mm,
• B - hole diameter 6 mm

1. Secure the shock absorber in a vice with the rod facing down.

2. Using a 3 mm drill bit, drill a hole in the shock absorber housing (A), see Fig. Drilling locations in the shock absorber housing.

Warning: When drilling a hole in the gas shock absorber body, pressurized gas will escape. When gas escapes from the shock absorber, cover the hole with a rag.

3. Continuing drilling, drill into the inner tube of the shock absorber (about 25 mm).

4. Using a 6mm drill bit, drill a second hole (B) into the shock absorber body and inner tube.

5. Place a suitable container under the shock absorber and, moving the shock absorber piston rod from stop to stop, squeeze the fluid out of the shock absorber.



6. After draining the fluid from the shock absorber, the shock absorber can be recycled.

Cutting the shock absorber

Mounting the shock absorber in a vice when cutting the shock absorber body

1. Secure the shock absorber in a vertical position in a vice, see Fig. Securing the shock absorber in a vice when cutting the shock absorber body.

2. Place a pipe cutter on the top of the shock absorber body and cut the shock absorber body. This will prevent gas from escaping from the gas-filled shock absorber.

3. Pull the shock absorber rod upward while holding the inner shock absorber tube in the shock absorber body.

4. Remove the shock absorber rod from the inner tube.

5. Drain the fluid from the shock absorber into a suitable container.