Thread: New shocks?

Originally Posted by tangiers

When I go over a speed hump in my '77 Series III SWB, even very slowly, it is a bone jarring experience. It really is as if the entire vehicle is going to break into pieces. Consistent with the lack of care the vehicle had before I bought it, I presume the shock absorbers have not been replaced for some time. Is it likely that the ride will improve with new shocks or is this simply a consequence of the leaf springs? I don't mind a few bumps but it really is very unpleasant going over these humps everyday to the station.

i know i had a clunking sound and i replaced the rubbers for the shockys and put in new bushes and no clunk.but yours is a different matter but im just putting that out there.leafs are still good suspension

have a look at the condition of the bushes also if they are nolthane u can have different grades of stiffness. i prefer rubber bushes.
with your shock jack up the vehicle disconnect the bottom and depress it, it should be hard to push up and come straight back when released

shaun

It sounds as if the springs have rusted badly and are not flexing. Try supporting it on chassis stands and let the axle drop as far down as it can, then clean the springs and oil them.

If you search this forum you will find an interesting thread called "parabolic springs" or something similar, it is well worth reading, especially what Isuzurover did to his springs,

Cheers Charlie

Have a look at each leaf, where the end of the next leaf rubs. If you have bad stepping, it will stop or restrict the leaves from sliding, which they have to do as part of a normal leaf spring action. Bad stepping will give you a harsh jarring ride. ( apart from having too many leaves in the pack ) If there are slipper pads between the leaves to quieten and assist the movement of the leaves, also check their condition.

I had a similar experience. My vehicle had been sitting for years. I cleaned mine with a wire brush then sprayed them with Inox and went 4wding. Eventually the leaves separated and the ride softened right up.