Front Strut: Inspection: Strut

Check for oil leaks.
Move the piston rod up and down to check that it operates smoothly without any hitch.
Check the piston rod for play as follows:
1. Fix the outer shell in place and fully extend the rod.
2. Set the dial gauge on the end of the rod L [10 mm (0.39 in)].
3. While applying a force of W [20 N (2 kgf, 4 lbf)] to the threaded part, read the dial gauge indication P₁ .
4. Apply a force of 20 N (2 kgf, 4 lbf) from the opposite direction of "W", and then read the dial gauge indication P₂ .
  
  Fig 1: Checking Piston Rod Play
  Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  
  Play limit (P ₁ + P ₂ ): 0.8 mm (0.031 in)
Replace the strut if faulty is found in the inspection or limit value is exceeded.