FRONT SHOCK ABSORBER MOUNTS

1 What goes wrong?

The front shock absorber mounts to the inner wing on two bushes. They squash, harden and wear over time. The bush locating cups either side of the mounting hole rust and wear, too. This photo shows our old and new upper bushes.

2 Remove upper bush

Raise the front of the body on axle stands. Support the wishbone on the side you’re working on with a jack under the spring pan. Detach (but leave connected) the coolant or power steering reservoir to access the bush. Undo the top nut and remove.

3 Remove shock absorber

Remove the two bolts that secure the upper suspension arms to the hub assembly. Take out the bolt that attaches the base of the shock absorber to the lower wishbone. Lower the jack under the spring pan just enough to free the shock absorber.

4 Check shock absorber

Move the shock absorber through its whole range of motion, ensuring that it damps effectively and consistently. Now’s a good time to treat its steel body to a protective coat of paint or replace the rubber gaiter that surrounds the piston rod.

5 Renew lower bush

Replace the lower shock absorber bush and its locating cup. Ours had deteriorated to the point that the tops of the shock absorbers were making contact with the inner wing. Reattach the shock absorber to the lower wishbone with a new locknut.

6 Renew upper bush

Raise the jack under the spring pan to push the shock absorber back through its top hole. Reattach the hub to the upper suspension arms. Fit the new upper locating cup and bush, then the top washer a new locknut. Tighten to 15lb ft.