Fitting New Shocks Advice

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beefio
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Fitting New Shocks Advice

Post by beefio » Thu Mar 30, 2017 9:42 am

My F failed it's MOT and needs new shocks all round, I've got a new set of TRW aftermarket shocks on order and need to fit them before the MOT retest is due in 10 days.

I've been having a look on the net for guidance, but can anyone on here give me any tips and also advise what tools I will need so that I can be prepared?

Much appreciated!

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talkingcars
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Re: Fitting New Shocks Advice

Post by talkingcars » Thu Mar 30, 2017 1:02 pm

Spring compressors, allen key and decent sockets/spanners.
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beefio
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Re: Fitting New Shocks Advice

Post by beefio » Thu Mar 30, 2017 1:06 pm

Ok thanks, how would I use a spring compressor if there are no springs?

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Charless
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Re: Fitting New Shocks Advice

Post by Charless » Thu Mar 30, 2017 1:29 pm

If it is an F you have dampers not shock absorbers. The spheres absorb the shocks and the dampers damp the return rate of the spheres. You almost certainly won't notice any difference between new and old on the road.
A decent socket set including deep sockets is a must and you may need waterpump pliers/a strap wrench (and preferably an oppo) to hold the unit from below while undoing the top nut. It should prove an easy job, particularly with a buddy.

beefio
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Re: Fitting New Shocks Advice

Post by beefio » Thu Mar 30, 2017 1:43 pm

OK thanks, I'm getting a scrap wrench was told that would be useful, but what size sockets are required so I can also buy the necessary deeps sockets?

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Charless
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Re: Fitting New Shocks Advice

Post by Charless » Thu Mar 30, 2017 5:49 pm

Cheaper to buy a set - under a tenner and you'll never regret it as you sort other problems down the line. But if you are going to keep and work on your car a general rule is the best tools that you can afford. It doesn't need to be a complete Snap-on rolling toolchest there are many levels in between and only you know what you can afford!
There is the damper top nut and the bottom bolt and nut - I think 17 and 15mm - if you have even a cheap socket set you won't be caught out. Strap wrench and 'Plus gas' or similar to penetrate and ease any recalcitrant threads - Bingo!

beefio
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Re: Fitting New Shocks Advice

Post by beefio » Thu Mar 30, 2017 6:11 pm

I did exactly that, just got a cheap set for £10 on amazon...13, 14, 15, 17, 19, 21, 22, 24mm which will cover most bases, won't be amazing quality but I'll only use them once in a blue moon and they had good reviews.

I already have small and medium socket sets and a torque ratchet but just needed some larger deep sockets, so should be sorted now!

Got some plus gas so will be duly soaking my nuts before hand :thumbsu:

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daz
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Re: Fitting New Shocks Advice

Post by daz » Thu Mar 30, 2017 6:25 pm

before you soak your nuts, give them a scrub with a wire brush to loosen off any rust :)

Mikeadman
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Re: Fitting New Shocks Advice

Post by Mikeadman » Thu Mar 30, 2017 8:01 pm

:lol: :lol: :lol:

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