Dampers

[marc4242]

My vehicle piches like a boat at sea.  I wonder if the dampers might want replacing.  How big a job is this?  Before Derek tells me to look in the manual  I'm looking for people's practical experiences ...

[>>CHOP<<]

It is an easy job to do....if it rocks around ...and is very bouncy then it is more than likley to be the dampers....

But depending on your experience with driving these vans then it could be normal they do rock around a little especially when windy...but like i said if it is bouncy then its deffo..the dampers...my mother could change the rear dampers...front ones a bit more effort is required.....easy job ...(again depending on how mechanically minded you are)....

[marc4242]

Thanks.  I enjoy working on the campervan.  I've done a few things eg changed the thermostat, reduced the idle, swapped the termperature sender and other small things and I'd like to have a go at the dampers.  What makes the front ones a bit harder?  Do I need any special tools apart from my q good spanner / socket collection?  It looks a one person job, is it?

Marc

[TITCH]

Yep,
Wheel off, motor jacked up & secure!!
You'll see! Check the rubber bushes are OK too, they are in two halves per top & bottom fixing.

Titch

[>>CHOP<<]

yeah have a go ..it will become clear what you have to do....

you may have to remove the brake caliper to gain access to the bolts

there is a clip holding the brake flexi-pipe to a bracket on the strut..if you pull this with a pair of pliers it will slide out

remove the bottom clamp bolt ..then undoe the three nuts at the top and shes off..

if you are planning to take the strut apart then remove the big nut in the middle under the plastic cap....you will need to somehow compress the sping ...check rubbers like titch said..they do deteriate ...or just replace the whole strut which is easier....owt for an easy life....good luck

[marc4242]

I now haven't found any dampers ... will Suzuki Carry ones fit?

[TITCH]

I would imagine so ??
But I reckon any motor factors could cross reference them.

[Dell Boy]

I do not think shocks from the 1.3 Carry will fit but I don`t know. Have a look at them & see if they are oily. If they are they are leaking & require replacing. I have secondhand ones. Derek.