A car’s suspensions are a system composed of various elements. Their function is to absorb shocks to the wheels coming from the irregularities of the road while driving (task entrusted to the springs) and to slow down the elastic response of the springs themselves which extend again after compression (task of the shock absorbers) in order to avoid dangerous high-low oscillations of the car with the consequent loss of grip. In addition to these two main elements, there are other components such as oscillating arms, various types of rubber pads, silent-blocks, stabiliser bar, etc.
These systems can also differ substantially from car to car. All these components are subjected to intense mechanical stresses during the car’s operation and are exposed to the aggression of external elements such as mud, water, tar, dust, gravel etc. The sum of these factors makes the suspension’s action less prompt and effective initially, then causes real deterioration of some components that must be solved at by a mechanic. Certain preventive steps, such as lubricating the car’s suspensions, lengthens their proper operation and can be done by any car owner. Let’s see how.
WHAT YOU’LL NEED FOR LUBRICATE CAR’S SUSPENSIONS
- High-pressure washer
- Parking stands
- WD-40 Specialist Fact Acting Degreaser
- WD-40 Specialist Water Resistant Silicone Lubricant
THOROUGH WASHING
Before doing anything else, the system constituting the suspension must be thoroughly washed. Certainly the most suitable means is a high pressure washer which, equipped with an appropriate detergent, removes even the most strongly anchored residues. Regardless of any additional steps, every time you travel along muddy or sandy roads, it’s important to carry out a thorough washing as soon as possible to eliminate the materials that can cause damage to the system.
SAFELY LIFT THE CAR
The suspension to be serviced must be carefully examined. To do this comfortably (as well as to perform any maintenance), the car should be raised up on a lift. If you don’t have one, get a pair of parking stands to put the car on. It must then be firmly blocked (stands on level ground, gear engaged, hand brake, wheel stop blocks). Never ever work on a car that has not been raised in absolute safety.
CHECK THE SUSPENSIONS
Check each component of the suspension to detect any possible defects. If found, take your car to the mechanic. In particular, the shock absorber must be examined to check if there are oil leaks on the stem or body. If this is the case, it must be changed by your mechanic. Then the rubber seals that dampen the vibrations of the various other systems must be examined. If you notice cracks or even missing parts, they must be replaced by a mechanic. If you notice greasy spots that weren’t removed with the washing, spray them with some WD-40 Specialist Fast Acting Degreaser which quickly removes grease, oil and dirt without leaving any residue. It acts immediately on contact, and is easy to rinse.
LUBRICATE THE SUSPENSIONS
The stem of the shock absorber can be treated with a few sprays of WD-40 Specialist Water Resistant Silicone Lubricant, which has excellent lubricating properties to ensure the perfect movement of parts. The product does not attract dirt and insulates from moisture after quickly drying. The same product can be used on the rubber parts of the various elements equipped with anti-noise and anti-vibration gaskets, especially on the rubber pads in the various anchoring points of the stabiliser bar.
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