Thread: front springs and shocks

What I would do:

Shocks are easy to remove/install. Don't require removal of springs. If you have gas(shocks) then a bit harder to install, but not by much. Hydraulic(shocks) are easier if doing it alone.

I recall pretty good experience with std LR shocks, and if you don't want/need more lift or travel.. are a good option. Relatively cheap too. And they're hydraulic so easier to fit on your own.

IIRC, front shocks about $100 each(so about $200).
I would do that first and see if it restores the front ride height first.

if it doesn't(and you have genuine shocks) it's easy to then remove again and fit better springs if they're needed.

Originally Posted by laney

Hi all I have noticed my front shocks are leaking and the front has sagged a little ARB bull bar fitted I don't want to lift the car just get it to sit right the car doesn't do any hard off road work but it travels on gravel roads quite a lot. The car travels bush tracks at times I was thinking standard height king springs and kyb shocks would this work I don't have a huge amount to spend trying to keep it under $700 after people's thoughts as to the best wat to go and ideas.
Thanks Phil.

The front shocks really shouldn’t make much difference to the ride height (maybe a tiny bit if you count the minor force in gas ones which you can compress by hand).
They WILL make a difference to the front “bottoming out” over bumps, though, as if they’re stuffed they will not assist the springs to avoid over-compression and the resulting “bouncing around” after hitting the stops. This sometimes may mislead someone into thinking the springs are “worn out”, when it’s the shocks.
The rubber shock mounts will likely be degraded too, and need to be replaced.
I would take the shocks out (from above), and refit new ones with new bushes (separate order). If you fit new springs (if they are indeed sagged) you could consider heavier ones to assist with the bullbar. If you change the springs for taller ones (higher), remember that the shock absorbers need to match the newer springs for length changes.
I had a D2 with the rear SLS air bags, and fitted a 50mm raise front and rear without issue. But the standard setup was good too, and for general off road and saving $$$ I’d just fix what works!