Citroen C5 x7 droplink problem (extended shock)

[robertall]

Hi,

I have just done loads of major work in the front left (near side) of my 2008 Citroen C5 x7, and unfortunately, the drop link needed to be removed, and was seized, so I cut it off, extracted it, and then the shock extended until it is resting on the driveshaft. I have tried to lower and raise the suspension (I know I shouldn't do it while it's jacked up, but I did remove the LDS cap), but the shock did not move to a position where I can attach the drop link.

Attached is a picture of my self-induced problem. I have tried to move it physically but it wouldn't budge.

Does anyone know the easiest way to undo my mistake? I do not want to break anything or make the situation worse.

Many thanks all,

Rob

[Lenny]

I'd expect to be able to push it back up with the car set to low.
Failing that I'd disconnect the metal pipe to the strut under the bonnet and then push it back up (but be ready to catch all the fluid that'll come out).

[robertall]

I'd expect to be able to push it back up with the car set to low.
Failing that I'd disconnect the metal pipe to the strut under the bonnet and then push it back up (but be ready to catch all the fluid that'll come out).

Thanks, Lenny, the only reason I didn't undo the suspension connector at the sphere was because I was worried I would damage something. This is my first C5 x7, so just learning the hard way. I shall try it on low setting. Am I correct in saying it is better to undo the connection if the suspension is in the lowest setting, due to less pressure and less fluid leaking everywhere?

I really appreciate you're help, I am a little lost with this at the moment

[PaulC5]

If it is like the earlier version of the C5, there will be a lds fluid drain screws under the suspension at the front and rear. It might be possible to slacken the front one and then push/jack the strut up whilst fluid is released. If you try anything like this the car body must be on axle stands since slackening the screw will release fluid and the car will quickly sink down if not on stands.

[Kees]

You can release the pressure by open the nippel on top of the right strut, but be carful to open it slowly to let the pressure out and also disconnect the battery, otherwise the pomp start to build op the pressure again.
Greetings,
Kees.

[Stickyfinger]

also disconnect the battery, otherwise the pomp start to build op the pressure again

Good point...........

NEVER work on Any C5 suspension with the battery connected

[wurlycorner]

Do you have both sides of the car jacked up, or just that corner?
Normally problems re-attaching anti-roll bar droplinks are caused by the car not being level - only one side jacked up means the distance between the anti-roll bar and the strut connection point is different on one side of the car, to the other.
Ensuring both wheels are hanging free off the ground normally solves this (sets the anti-roll bar level and the struts at the same extension of travel).

[robertall]

I jacked up both corners, loosened the hydraulic line to the sphere, and with a bit of wrestling with hammer, leverage and a trolley jack, got it all sorted now. Thank you, everyone, for your help, which is much appreciated.