1. Introduction
This instruction manual provides essential information for the proper installation, adjustment, and maintenance of your Belltech 25001 Street Performance Lowering and Lifting Shock. This product is designed to enhance vehicle handling and allow for adjustable ride height, offering both lowering and lifting capabilities for compatible vehicles. Please read this manual thoroughly before proceeding with any installation or adjustment procedures.
2. Safety Information
Working on vehicle suspension systems requires specialized tools and knowledge. Improper installation or adjustment can lead to serious injury or vehicle damage. Always adhere to the following safety guidelines:
- Professional Installation Recommended: If you are not experienced with automotive suspension work, it is highly recommended to have this product installed by a certified professional technician.
- Use Proper Equipment: Always use appropriate safety equipment, including eye protection, gloves, and sturdy jack stands. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
- Vehicle Compatibility: Ensure this product is compatible with your specific vehicle make, model, and year before installation. Refer to the product specifications.
- Torque Specifications: Always follow the vehicle manufacturer's torque specifications for all fasteners.
- Post-Installation Alignment: A professional wheel alignment is mandatory after any suspension component replacement or ride height adjustment to ensure proper vehicle handling and tire wear.
- Inspect Components: Regularly inspect all suspension components for wear, damage, or loose fasteners.
3. Package Contents
Verify that all components are present and undamaged before beginning installation. The package for the Belltech 25001 Street Performance Shock typically includes:
- Belltech 25001 Street Performance Shock/Strut
- Adjustable Spring Perch (if applicable to model)
- Retaining Rings/Clips
- Washers and Bushings
- Instruction Sheet (this document)
Image 3.1: Belltech 25001 Street Performance Shock with included components, including the main shock body, adjustable spring perch, and various washers and sleeves.
4. Setup and Installation
The Belltech 25001 Street Performance Shock is designed for specific vehicle applications. Ensure you have the correct part for your vehicle. Installation involves replacing the factory front struts and adjusting the ride height.
4.1 Pre-Installation Steps
- Park the vehicle on a level, solid surface.
- Engage the parking brake.
- Loosen the lug nuts on the front wheels.
- Safely lift the front of the vehicle using a hydraulic jack and support it securely with jack stands.
- Remove the front wheels.
- Consult your vehicle's service manual for specific instructions on removing the factory front strut assembly.
4.2 Ride Height Adjustment
The Belltech 25001 shock allows for ride height adjustment. This is typically achieved by repositioning a spring perch on the shock body using retaining rings or clips. The shock can provide up to a 2-inch lift to level the factory front-to-rear rake or lower the front by up to 3 inches in half-inch increments, depending on the application.
Image 4.1: Close-up view of the adjustable spring perch mechanism on the Belltech 25001 shock, showing the grooves for height adjustment.
To adjust the ride height:
- Before assembling the spring onto the shock, determine the desired ride height.
- Position the adjustable spring perch at the corresponding groove on the shock body.
- Secure the perch with the provided retaining rings/clips.
- Refer to the detailed instructions included with the product for specific perch settings and their corresponding ride height changes.
4.3 Shock Assembly and Installation
- Transfer the factory coil spring and top mount plate to the new Belltech 25001 shock. A spring compressor tool is required for this step. Exercise extreme caution when using a spring compressor.
- Ensure all bushings and washers are correctly installed at the upper and lower mounting points.
- Install the assembled shock/strut into the vehicle, securing the upper mounting nuts and lower mounting bolts.
- Apply thread lock to all bolts as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer or product instructions.
- Torque all fasteners to the vehicle manufacturer's specifications.
Image 4.2: Detailed view of the lower bushing assembly on the Belltech 25001 shock, crucial for proper fitment and function.
4.4 Post-Installation
- Reinstall the front wheels and torque the lug nuts to specification.
- Lower the vehicle safely.
- Drive the vehicle a short distance to allow the suspension to settle.
- Mandatory: Have a professional wheel alignment performed immediately after installation to correct any camber or toe changes caused by the new ride height.
5. Operation
Once installed and properly aligned, the Belltech 25001 Street Performance Shock operates automatically as part of your vehicle's suspension system. The key operational aspect is the ride height adjustment, which is set during installation. The shock's valving technology is designed to provide improved handling and ride quality compared to factory components, whether set for lowering or lifting.
Image 5.1: Side view of the Belltech 25001 Street Performance Shock, showcasing its design and branding.
6. Maintenance
The Belltech 25001 Street Performance Shock is designed for durability and minimal maintenance. However, regular inspection is crucial for optimal performance and safety.
- Visual Inspection: Periodically inspect the shocks for any signs of damage, leaks (fluid seepage), or corrosion.
- Bushing Check: Examine the rubber bushings at the upper and lower mounting points for cracks, tears, or excessive wear. Worn bushings can lead to noise and poor handling.
- Fastener Torque: After the initial settling period (e.g., 500 miles), re-check the torque on all mounting bolts and nuts to ensure they remain secure.
- Cleaning: Keep the shocks clean from excessive dirt and debris, especially around the shaft and seals, to prevent premature wear.
7. Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues that may arise with suspension components.
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Excessive fluid leakage from shock body | Damaged seal, internal component failure | Inspect for visible damage. If significant leakage, shock replacement may be necessary. Contact Belltech support. |
| Clunking or rattling noises from suspension | Loose mounting hardware, worn bushings, contact with other components | Check all mounting bolts for proper torque. Inspect bushings for wear and replace if necessary. Ensure no components are interfering. |
| Poor ride quality (too harsh or too soft) | Incorrect spring rate, improper installation, damaged shock | Verify correct spring installation. Ensure shock is not damaged. Re-evaluate ride height settings if applicable. |
| Uneven vehicle stance after installation | Incorrect ride height adjustment, spring settling, damaged component | Re-check ride height settings on both sides. Allow for settling. Perform a professional alignment. |
If you experience persistent issues not covered here, or if you suspect a product defect, please contact Belltech customer support.
8. Specifications
Key specifications for the Belltech 25001 Street Performance Shock:
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Belltech |
| Model Number | 25001 |
| Item Weight | 9.8 pounds (approx. 4.45 kg) |
| Position | Front |
| Exterior Finish | Painted |
| Adjustable Ride Height | Yes (up to 2" lift, down to 3" lowering in 0.5" increments, application dependent) |
| Fit Type | Vehicle Specific |
| Country of Origin | China |
9. Warranty and Support
Belltech products are manufactured to high standards. For specific warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Belltech website. If you require technical assistance, have questions about installation, or need to report a product issue, please contact Belltech customer support directly. Ensure you have your product model number (25001) and purchase details available when contacting support.
Belltech Customer Support: Refer to the contact information provided on the Belltech official website or product packaging.
