Replacing a shock - anybody done it?

[S3 CGJ]

I have a leaky rear shock and want to replace it. Has anybody done it themselves? if so, is it a fairly simple job without a need for specialist tools?

Just need to do this as a stop gap until i can afford the Nitron upgrade.

Anybody got a good standard shocker they want to sell me? I'm in Chester.

[basil brush]

It's a fairly easy job. One bolt through each end so you just need a couple of ring spanners or similar to suit (can't remember the sizes)

I've got a full set of standard units that I took off my July 2000 car which you can have for free but I'm across in Leeds.

[S3 CGJ]

I may just take you up on that offer if there is nobody closer. i have a meeting in Middlesborough on Thursday so could call in on the way.

Thanks for the info. Sounds straight forward enough.

[GreenV8S]

If one is leaky, consider what state the other three is in, they tend to all wear at a similar rate. Brand new dampers have diffeent damping characteristics to old worn out ones, even assuming you manage to get an identical spec. Mixing dampers with different damping characteristics can make a right mess of the handling.

You also need to decide what to do about the springs. If the replacement comes with a spring fitted, you'll need to confirm that it is the right rate and length (if the damper was specced for your car type you can probably assume that the length is right but check the rate). If you're keeping your existing spring then you will need to unload it from the old damper and load it onto the new one, not rocket science if you have the right spring compressors but with the potential to cause a lot of damage and injury if anything goes wrong. Assuming you do go ahead, if you're in any doubt about this I'd advise you to take the two dampers to a local mechanic and slip him a few quid to swap the spring over.

Edited by GreenV8S on Saturday 9th September 22:23

[S3 CGJ]

Thank you. I had condidered the age of the dampers. If I had to buy new ones I would replace both rear dampers to ensure even handling.

I hadn't considered changing the springs though.

Cheers.