Whenever I walk back to my Jeep from wherever I am, I always do a quick visual inspection of the suspension and axle. (Whatever I can't see if I'm standing right next to my Jeep) Today, walking back to my Jeep, I noticed a wet spot on my left rear shock. I feared the worst. This is what I found:



There's two things I noticed:
1) My bolt that connects my sway bar link to my axle is gone!
2) My shock is definitely leaking.

I found the bolt I need. So thats no big deal. But do I need to buy a new shock? And if so, is the leaking shock caused by the fact that the bolt is missing from the saw bar link? Or just coincidence? Just got the shocks this pass March from Northridge 4x4. It would be a real bummer if I have to buy another, but if thats what I have to do.

 

if you dont have the paperwork, give NR a call.. I believe they should be under warranty. NR should have your order history too if needed.. Good luck..

From http://www.bilsteinus.com/products/s.../warranty.html

WARRANTY DETAILS FOR TC (B4) / C / HD (B6) / Sport (B8) / BTS (B12) / PSS (B14) / PSS9 & PSS10 (B16) / 5100 (Application Specific) GAS PRESSURE SHOCKS
LIMITED LIFETIME WARRANTY
Bilstein warrants to the original retail purchaser that, for the life of each Gas Pressure Shock, this product shall be free from defects in material and workmanship. Proof of purchase is required process warranty. Please return product to the original place of purchase.

 

Missing bolt and leaking shock at the same time = coincidence.

On the upper wet spot, is there a hole in the boot? If not, look for an external source of the oil.

You should look into warranty coverage for the 3 month old shocks, if you determine it is leaking.

 

Wow. Thanks guys. Well at least if it is a leaky shock, it sounds like I can get it replaced.