3.2 carrera - how to fit rear shocks, extras

Hi,

1985 / 3.2 carrera

leaking rear shock - so about to replace them,

any suggestions on what to replace at the same time while parts are dis-assembled.

I've been soaking al the fixings I can see with WD40 for the past week or so - so hopefully the old suspension won't be too reluctant to come apart.


checking 2nd hand parts -
also - is there a way you can check shocks are OK - as have been offered a pair 2nd hand shocks ( correct fit - but: seem to be able to pull / extend the two ends very easily - is this normal???

Thanks
T

[don911]

You don't really need to take anything apart to replace the rear shocks. The air box and heater fan will make access easy.
Is it time for an air filter? Good time to change it while you have the air box off.

[livi]

I would not rely on second hand shocks. A pair of Bilstein is not that expensive and they last a long time.

It can be a bit of hassle reaching for the upper bolts (but not much). The lower on the other hand can be stuck like they have been welded. May take some brute force action with a long lever.

If the front shocks are original, I would change them too. Twenty years of service - time to retire. New shocks all around will transform the ride.

[Rot 911]

Another vote against used shocks. And WD-40 is really not a good penetrant. You need something like PB Blaster to get deep into the threads of the bolts.

[tonythetarga]

Originally posted by Oxford_Hippo
Hi,

1985 / 3.2 carrera

( correct fit - but: seem to be able to pull / extend the two ends very easily - is this normal???

Thanks
T

The shock ends can be moved manually. The torsion bars are the "springs" for the suspension system, the shock is really a damper for compression and rebound.

[rick-l]

After you get the car up in the air the bottom bolt on the rear shock will be easier to remove if the weight of the axle isn't hanging off the shock

[Joeaksa]

Air tools are your friend, especially on the lower bolt.

[defcon65]

Yes, that lower shock bolt is an absolute b**ch. Lots of PB Blaster and a big-a$$ breaker bar with pipe cheater broke it loose for me. I wouldn't rely on a used shock, either. Removing the airbox made the installation a bit easier but there is still not a lot of room to work the torque wrench in there. I bought the Bilstein HD shocks and am happy with them...

Regards,

[stallturn]

I found Plus Gas works well if you soak them with it for a couple of days before attempting to remove the nuts,even worked on
my heat exchangers.

Brian