Incorect shocks?

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zaph2
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Incorect shocks?

Post by zaph2 » Sun Jan 26, 2020 10:14 am

While finding the suspension leak on the MGF, I had a look at the adjustable shocks on the car. Basically I pushed them in and out, to see if their was any difference in the resistance. Well I couldn't feel any. Now my understanding is MGF shocks should only resist in one direction? Is that correct?

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talkingcars
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Re: Incorect shocks?

Post by talkingcars » Sun Jan 26, 2020 10:55 pm

Does your car have adjustable shocks?
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Charless
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Re: Incorect shocks?

Post by Charless » Mon Jan 27, 2020 8:04 am

Correct. The shock absorbing is done by the gas of the hydragas for the compression and the 'shock absorber', whether adjustable or standard, merely damps the rebound. They should more accurately be described as dampers rather than shock absorbers. Several brands made adjustables for the MGF - definitely aftermarket.

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Mykel
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Re: Incorect shocks?

Post by Mykel » Mon Jan 27, 2020 8:46 am

Whilst investigating, have a look at the top damper mounts at the rear. When incorrect shocks are used (resistance on compression), these tend to break/split and may need reworking or welding.
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Rob Bell
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Re: Incorect shocks?

Post by Rob Bell » Mon Jan 27, 2020 10:16 am

100% agree with Charles' and Mykel's comments there. Adjustable shock absorbers were never fitted as standard from the factory. The originals were non-adjustable, with resistance only on rebound.

Fitting overly stiff shocks places loads far in excess of the design load for the standard shock mounts in the MGF shell - and this is easily done with adjustable shocks where there may be the temptation to "turn them up to 11" [/spinal tap reference]. See Andrew's experience: http://mgf.ultimatemg.com/group2/common ... ailure.htm

So, coming back to the original question: "Basically I pushed them in and out, to see if their was any difference in the resistance. Well I couldn't feel any. Now my understanding is MGF shocks should only resist in one direction? Is that correct?" Yes, that is quite correct. Also, you are likely concerned that this shock is cream-krackered. The answer to that too is yes, it is. And if this one is, chances are that the others are in need of replacement too...

Standard shocks are readily available, and when I last looked very cheap. If you want after market adjustable shocks, just be careful on what setting you use. :)

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