OEM 2004 Buick Park Avenue Shock Absorber

2004 Buick Park Avenue Parts Questions & Experts Answers

• Q: How should you safely drain oil from gas charged shock absorbers on 2004 Buick Park Avenue?

  A: Gas charged shock absorbers contain high pressure gas therefore removing the snap ring from inside the top tube section can result in dangerous contents being forcefully emitted toward your body. Safety glasses and caution about avoiding shock absorber tube damage should be used when performing centerpunching and drilling operations on shock absorbers. To initiate assembly start by using a centerpunch to make a 10mm (0.4 inch) indentation located at the tube bottom. Position the shock absorber inside the vise while keeping the shock absorber rod totally stretched out. Drill a hole through the shock absorber at the centerpunch location by using a 3/16-inch drill bit for gas or oil/gas mixture evacuation while utilizing shop towels to absorb the spilling oil. After making a middle hole indentation with the centerpunch drill a 5mm (3/16 inch) hole at that location to release oil while using shop towels to protect against oil loss. To drain the shock absorber completely remove it from the vise and position the drain pan underneath the holes facing down while using the rod to pull out and insert into the tube.