Genuine Mazda RX-7 Shock Absorber

Mazda RX-7 Shock Absorber Parts and Q&A

• Shock Absorber
  FA24-49-790
  Q: How to remove and install the front shock absorber assembly on Mazda RX-7?

  A:

  Lift the front of the vehicle and hold it up by means of stands and then take off the front wheel and the front Wheel Hub. The next step is to remove the four bolts that hold the backing plate and inner caliper mounting bracket in place on the spindle, then the backing plate can then be removed. Loosen the fitting of the flexible hose on the inboard side of the shock absorber by removing the metal clip in the bracket using pliers. At the bottom of the shock, take out the two bolts that hold the knuckle arm to the shock assembly, which can be easily reached through turning the steering. There is a small triangle mark at the top of the shock absorber inside the engine compartment, mark a similar mark on the inner fender panel to match it when reassembling. Unscrew the four attaching nuts around the top of the shock absorber and take out the shock absorber assembly out of the mounting slots on the fender panel through the wheel well. Installation When fitting the assembled shock absorber, be sure that the triangle and the mark on the inner fender panel coincide and in case the mounting block is changed, align the wheel. Install the shock absorber in the inner fender and the four attaching nuts loosely installed. Install the two-bolts at the bottom of the shock absorber into the knuckle arm, making the short one on the front and the long one on the rear and tighten the bolts to 46 to 69 ft-lb and install the flexible hose to the inboard side of the shock absorber with the metal clip and ensure it completely fits into the bracket. Installation sequences when fixing the support plate and caliper bracket would be to first drill the lower mounting bolt through the support bracket on the rear side, then to install and screw the four attaching bolts of the support plate and finally install the front hub assembly.
• Strut
  FB44-28-700C
  Q: How to test the shock absorber for proper functioning on Mazda RX-7?

  A:

  In order to test the shock absorber, place it in the upright position and move the piston rod four or five times in a full length of travel. A high hydraulic pressure means that it is working well whereas absence of a distinct resistance or suddenly free movement is an indication that one should repair or replace it. Moreover, in case the shock absorber is obvious on the outside, it should also be replaced or repaired in case of excess fluid.