Rear Shock: What does AFM mean?

SP2 · 05-12-2006, 09:55 AM

Hi, I could use your help. I am trying to replace my rear shocks. I did a search and found this under "rear shock removal". I have an 81SC that loves its new front Bilstein Sport inserts and is looking for its rears now. I am stuck at the removal of the top shock nuts. I know this has been addressed before. I found the post below under a "rear shock removal" search.

"Originally posted by 450knotOffice
Well, my Porsche mechanic buddy just came over to drop off a pressure bleeder for my brakes and I asked him what he would do. He told me that the easiest way was to simply remove the AFM and box as a complete unit. He said it's easier, quicker and offers more room to work as well. So that's what I'll be doing tomorrow.

Man, who would've thought it'd be such a PIA to pull one shock out. Sheesh. "

What does AFM mean? Can somebody post a picture or reference one showing me what nuts and bolts I should remove? Does this removal really only take 10 minutes? I spent much more time already at failing to remove the upper shock nuts.

Thanks.

dentist90 · dentist90's Garage

Air flow meter... metal box between air cleaner and throttle body. Sorry, no pics handy

Tyson Schmidt · 05-12-2006, 10:12 AM

I thought it was another name for the FSM, or "Flying Spaghetti Monster".

AFM= "Almighty Flying Meal".

On second thought, maybe it is the airflow meter.

jdowty3 · jdowty3's Garage

Maybe he's think you have a 3.2 instead of a 3.0 with CIS. The top nuts are hard to get at but not impossible. It's easier if you remove the heat blower motor to get at the drivers side shock. You could also remove the air-box piece ( black ribbed heavy rubber peice shaped like a kidney bean) that connects the throttle housing to the fuel distributor to help see the right side. You could also do a partial engine drop.

SP2 · 05-12-2006, 11:27 AM

Thanks for the replies!

I will read up on the AFM in Bentley and the P-workshop manual tonight.

chrisp · 05-12-2006, 12:11 PM

Just did mine the other day. All I needed to do was to pull the accordian hose coming from the fan hosuing into the heater blower. That gave me great access to the driver's side shock. The passenger side was more challenging but without removing anything (I don't have A/C) I could wiggle my overstuffed arms and hands in such a way that I could get the nuts off. Good luck.

dentist90 · dentist90's Garage

I have also come to the conclusion that in order to be a Porsche factory mechanic you must be able to shove your hand through a toilet paper tube without tearing the sides. MAN they can cram stuff into this car!!

harold12750 · 05-15-2006, 09:59 AM

changed mine , just remove accordian hose from drivers side,passenger side top fastener a little difficult but was able to get at it even with big york compreessor in the way the hardest part for me was the lower bolts! no air tools had to use much force and a very long breaker bar ! very satisfying job esecially if the old ones were toast like mine! enjoy!