Do I really need a specialist....

[CarZee]

All the recommended TVR independents seem to require 18 months notice for any work to be carried out.

My local garage are quite happy to do any work, provided I source parts for them. I'm talking shocks/springs/bushes/exhaust system. I can get all the bits from Peninsula or similar.

Do I really need to have a TVR specialist fit these items?

My local garage's labour rate isn't the cheapest though, at £43 + VAT. It's convenient and available though, if there's nothing unique about doing a suspension replacement on an S. I suspect that at worst they might not have the right spring compressors.

>>> Edited by CarZee on Friday 25th April 19:05

[dern]

I'd be happy doing it (although that isn't an offer ) and I'm neither a specialist or a garage. None of what you mention sounds difficult although a bench pressure bush pusher inner thing sounds like a useful tool for the bushes.

Why do you need special spring compressors? They look like regular springs to me.

Regards,

Mark

[shpub]

If a specialist does it the chances are that they will notice if anything else does need looking at and know how to set up the car afterwards.

The problem is that when things go wrong, a non-specilaist either doesn't realise it or have the background knowledge to realise what has gone wrong. They also invariably don't know how long the job will take and it can often end up taking more hours.

[gadgit]

Anyone can get the bits off, it's getting the old bushes out that is a bit nigling. You do not need a spring compressor for either the back or the front and LeeBee will confirm this. I had his spring/shocks and fitted them both without a compressor, he even took the back ones off his car while I waited and this is not a problem. The only thing you may need to do is take the wieght off the spring bolts befor tapping them out. The biggest problem will be getting the brake lines undone. Its normal to find the brackets all rusted up and unable to undo. you coulf find that you will have to hacksaw through the things and replace the brake lines with braded while you are at it.

The advantage to having the job done at the garage will be speed, as they will want the car out the way. therefore be prepared for a bigger bill than they quoted you. The brake pipes are £9 for the long one and £6 for the short one for each side and they will charge you for fitting them. Don't despair though, as they just might come undone!

Agree also with Steve on the issue of Specialist knowledge, but it will cost you if you can't do it yourself!

Good luck.

gadgit.

>> Edited by gadgit on Friday 25th April 20:48

[Podie]

£43 + VAT per hour is pretty cheap CZ...!

[dern]

shpub said: If a specialist does it the chances are that they will notice if anything else does need looking at and know how to set up the car afterwards.

Good point.

Mark

[boosted ls1]

Any competent person could do it. This is straightforward work to a garage. I'd make sure the place is legit and you need to feel confident about them.