SWB Front Struts/Shocks Mis-Matched?

[maresdesign]

I have a SWB front suspension on my '71 911E and it appears they are two different types? Or has one had the upper cylinder/collar removed? (Sorry for the rotated pics, not sure why its doing this.)

[Flieger]

That is a dust cover and you should have something there to help prevent wear of that seal.

The bigger question is why did you put the earlier suspension on your '71? Most people go the other way since it is easier/cheaper to maintain and I think it is a bit lighter too since there are not so many bolted connections.

[maresdesign]

I didn't install this suspension. It came with the car. As I understand this was a common conversion for E's that used the hydropneumatic suspension system. I'm sure there were also people with SWB cars converting to later suspensions and so I'm guessing there was a surplus of cheap SWB front suspensions to be had.

[gtc]

The good news is that you can buy new a-arms relatively cheap these days, if you want to switch back to a correct setup.

[chris_seven]

It depends on how much was swapped.

The 1968 front steering crossmember is Ok with later A Arms but the Pre 68 design uses a fan block and you probably won't be able to fit the later arms without changing this part as well.