Leaking fron shocker advice please!

Post by **damian1978** » Thu Apr 16, 2009 11:50 am

Hello all, I'm new to this site and I have a 1955 SII saloon which has been standing for a few months, but basically solid.

I'm pulling it back into regular service and I've just been doing the usual pre mot checks and service bits and I've noticed that the offside front shock absorber is leaking oil from the bottom.

Is there a way of simply servicing the shockers, new seals/oil etc?? Or would a reconditioned replacement be better? If it's possible to service them, where could I get the parts (bull motif only seem to sell recon units) and how would I go about doing it? Is it a simple operation, bearing in mind I'm fairly handy but unfarmiliar with these shockers.

Thanks in advance!

Post by **simmitc** » Thu Apr 16, 2009 11:54 am

There is a small screw-in valve at the bottom of the unit. If you're lucky, then it will be from there the it's leaking, in which case a bit of PTFE tape will cure it. However, it's more likely to be the seal / bush around the pivot arm, in which case a reconditioned unit is the answer.

Post by **bmcecosse** » Thu Apr 16, 2009 1:57 pm

I wouldn't put tape on it! The valve body should seal against a washer. Not possible to overhaul at home - but depending how bad the leak is - wipe it away and top up the damper with fresh oil - and see what happens. It may last a very long time ! If fitting replacements - best change both, not just the one.

Post by **damian1978** » Thu Apr 16, 2009 2:23 pm

Thanks guys, it seems a fairly meaty leak, ill top up and see what happens, but i reckon a couple of replcements might be required if it's not a DIY job.

Post by **bmcecosse** » Thu Apr 16, 2009 2:26 pm

Worth checking the valve - but if it's coming out the arm seal - recon dampers required - although you may pick up some 'used' ones on here. Ask in 'Wanted' section!

Post by **FrankM83** » Thu Apr 16, 2009 8:00 pm

OK very typical over here in Malta and not sure if it's a good idea (infact I never did it!) is to pour grease in it and top up with oil! cocktail!!

Post by **bmcecosse** » Thu Apr 16, 2009 8:11 pm

Hmmm - well I have used EP90 in the past - but I don't really recommend that for a road car.

Buy these - they look dry! http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll? ... 0404264533