Escort shock absorber

Types of Escort Shock Absorber

A shock absorber is an essential part of a vehicle's suspension system. It was created to soak up and dissipate the shock of impact. Without the shock absorber, the whole vehicle would shake, and the occupants would be uncomfortable. It is, however, important to note that the escort shock absorber is not meant to only provide comfort to riders. Its other important function is to keep the vehicle in control. Without it, the vehicle would bounce on uneven roads, making it difficult to steer. This could lead to the driver losing control of the vehicle and, ultimately, accidents. The shock absorber also helps to maintain the vehicle's tire contact with the road, further enhancing vehicle control. There are two main types of shock absorbers:

• Monotube shock absorber: This type of shock absorber has a single cylinder that holds the gas and oil. It is the most commonly used type of shock absorber. The escort monotube shock absorber contains high-pressure nitrogen gas. This gas helps to prevent the oil from foaming. The monotube shock absorber also has a piston rod that moves up and down in the cylinder, creating a force that resists motion. The monotube shock absorber is known for its quick response and consistent damping force.
• Twin-tube shock absorber: This type of shock absorber has two cylinders. The inner cylinder acts as a reservoir for the oil and the piston. The outer cylinder holds the gas. The twin-tube shock absorber is cheaper to produce, making it affordable. It is also easier to disassemble and assemble. This type of shock absorber is commonly used in passenger cars.

Both types of shock absorbers are available in different designs to suit various vehicle needs.

Specification and Maintenance of Escort Shock Absorber

Below is a comprehensive guide to the specifications and maintenance of the Escort shock absorber.

Specifications

• Type of Shock Absorber

  There are two main types of shock absorers: twin tube and mono tube shock absorbers. The mono tube shock absorber is more advanced and has a larger cylinder that holds gas and oil. It is also more expensive than the twin-tube shock absorber. The latter has two parallel tubes, one for the oil and one for the gas. The twin-tube shock absorber is more common and affordable.

  Shock absorbers also come in heavy-duty and standard options. Heavy-duty shock absorbers can endure more weight and are ideal for people who drive around with heavy loads. Standard shock absorbers are suitable for average weight loads.

• Fluid

  Shock absorbers use oil as a lubricant to ensure smooth movement of the rods and valves. The fluid also helps control the temperature by transferring heat to other parts. While oil is the primary fluid used in shock absorbers, some brands also use gas (nitrogen) to improve performance.

• Material

  Steel is the most common material used to make shock absorbers. The steel parts are coated to protect them from rust. Some shock absorbers are made of aluminum, which is lighter than steel. However, aluminum is more expensive than steel.

• Size

  Shock absorbers are available in different sizes to suit different types of vehicles. The length of the shock absorber affects how well it works. A long shock absorber has a larger damping effect than a short one. This is because the long absorber compresses more when it is pushed.

• Weight

  Shock absorbers have different weights. The weight is determined by the material used and the size of the shock absorber. Heavier shock absorbers provide better performance. However, they can be difficult to install.

Maintenance

• Visual Inspection

  Users should check their escort shock absorbers regularly for any signs of wear and damage. They should also inspect the mounting hardware and look for loose or missing bolts. Inspect the tires for uneven wear, which may indicate a problem with the shock absorber.

• Cleaning

  Users should clean their shock absorbers after every off-road trip. They can use a damp cloth to remove any dirt and debris. They should also clean the mounting points and bolts to prevent rust.

• Lubrication

  Users should apply lubricant to the moving parts of the shock absorber once every three months. The lubricant reduces friction and prevents wear and tear. They should also lubricate the mounting points to ensure a tight fit.

• Professional Inspection

  Once every six months, users should take their vehicles to a professional mechanic for inspection. The mechanic will use specialized equipment to check the condition of the shock absorbers. They will also test the performance of the shock absorbers.

• Replacement

  After every 50,000 kilometers, users should consider replacing their shock absorbers. However, the lifespan of a shock absorber depends on the brand, quality, and driving conditions. If the vehicle bounces over small speed bumps or has poor braking, it may be time to replace the shock absorber.

How to Choose Escort Shock Absorber

When choosing an escort shock absorber for a project, consider the following:

• Application

  Consider the kind of vehicle and the use it will be put to. While a shock absorber will be ideal for heavy-duty vehicles that carry cargo, a sports car will need a more performance-oriented shock absorber.

• Load Capacity

  The shock absorber should be able to carry the weight of the vehicle. For instance, a small car like a Toyota will use less shock absorber than a Range Rover or a pickup truck.

• Brand

  Consider going for well-known and trusted brands like the Ford Escort shock absorber parts. While they may be a little more expensive, they are often of higher quality and last longer than the generic brands. They also offer warranties and after-sales services.

• Price

  Consider the price of the shock absorber. Those with more advanced features and made with high-quality materials will be more expensive.

• Features

  When choosing an escort shock absorber, consider the features. Which one is more suited to the project at hand? For instance, if the project requires a shock absorber that can withstand rough terrain, then choose one with a heavy-duty feature.

• Installation

  Consider how easy or difficult it will be to install the shock absorber. Some require professional installation, while others can be easily installed by the user. If unsure about installation, it is advisable to go for those that come with installation guides.

How to diy and replace escort shock absorber

The following are the necessary tools and materials for replacing a shock absorber:

• New shock absorber
• Socket wrench
• Pliers
• Torque wrench
• Spring compressor
• Jack and jack stands
• Wheel chock

Follow the steps below to replace a shock absorber:

• 1. Prepare the vehicle: Firstly, put on the parking brake and place the wheel chocks on the wheels that are opposite to the shock absorber being replaced. Then, using the jack, lift the vehicle and place it on the jack stands. Additionally, remove the wheel that is opposite to the shock absorber being replaced.
• 2. Remove the old shock absorber: After locating the shock absorber, use a socket wrench to remove the bolts that hold it to the vehicle. Then, pull the shock absorber off the bolts. Furthermore, hold the top of the shock absorber with pliers and use a wrench to remove the nut on top of the shock absorber.
• 3. Install the new shock absorber: Compress the springs of the new shock absorber using a spring compressor. Then, place the new shock absorber into its mounts and use a wrench to tighten the bolts. After installing the new shock absorber, put back the wheel and lower the vehicle.

Q and A

Q1: How can users identify a faulty shock absorber?

A1: Identifying a faulty shock absorber is pretty straightforward. The car may bounce excessively on uneven roads, experience nose diving during braking, or have a tilted posture. Visual inspection can reveal oil leaks. If the vehicle's tires are unevenly worn out, it could be a sign of a faulty shock absorber. Ultimately, a professional inspection can confirm the absorber's condition.

Q2: Can users continue driving with a faulty shock absorber?

A2: While it may be physically possible to drive with a faulty shock absorber, it is highly inadvisable. The vehicle's control and stability will be compromised, increasing the risk of accidents. Moreover, other parts of the car, such as the tires and brakes, may be affected. This could lead to more extensive damage and costly repairs.

Q3: How long does it take to replace shock absorbers during a car service?

A3: The time required to replace shock absorbers during a car service depends on various factors, including the vehicle type, the mechanic's expertise, and the workshop's equipment. Typically, replacing shock absorbers can take between 1 to 3 hours. It's worth noting that other related tasks, such as wheel alignment, may add to the total time.

Q4: Is there a need to change both front and rear shock absorbers?

A4: There is no strict rule that dictates changing both front and rear shock absorbers. However, for balanced vehicle performance and stability, changing all four absorbers simultaneously is recommended. If only one absorber is changed, the vehicle may experience uneven damping, affecting its handling and safety.

Q5: Can users replace shock absorbers by themselves?

A5: Replacing shock absorbers is a task that requires a certain level of mechanical knowledge and expertise. While it is possible for DIY enthusiasts to replace them, it is recommended to have a trained professional mechanic handle the replacement. A professional can ensure the correct installation and perform related tasks like wheel alignment.