Used shocks

[Jimmyd]

I'm kind of at the stage were I need to buy shocks and I simply don't have £400 for a new set just now. I've been offered a used set, a pair of AVO's for the front and Koni's for the rear. The are 14 1/2" open eye to eye and 2 1/2" springs, fully adjustable. At a £180 they are much more affordable but do I really want to fit used shocks?

J

[Ted Andkilde]

How used are they? If you're buying from a mate and you have a good idea of their history and condition it should be fine.

AVO's are really simple oil bath shocks, not much to go wrong in them. So long as the shafts are in good shape (no nicks, rust or flaky chrome -- all of which are death), a rebuild consists of a little UFO shaped seal that runs less than £1 apiece and if you're feeling frisky, fresh shock oil. The Koni's should also be re-buildable (I've never had one apart though).

That said, £180 seems a bit steep, I paid £100 for a nice set of AVO's with springs -- keep your eyes peeled and act fast when you see them, I missed a few sets along the way.

Cheers, Ted

[tkpm]

Welcome to the forum Ted

[AshG]

2.5 inch springs probably wont fit through the front upper wishbones to be honest. its tight with 1.9's

[Jimmyd]

Thanks all,

Save the pennies and go for a new set of GAZ me thinks

[Simon_K]

Do you need the shocks to roll the chassis around? Of is this for suspension related stuff?

If you just need to get the chassis on wheels, why not make up a set of solid struts?

(My apologies in advance if I have missed the point).

[Big Vern]

TBH Jimmy contact AVO direct 'cos I'm fairly sure they're not £400 from AVO unless they've put their prices up alot. (seem to remeber a mate getting a pair from them a year or two back for around £60ish each). AVO's are easily rebuilt and I believe quite reasonably at AVO whereas I don't think Koni's can be rebuilt and spax(rubbish) deffo can't be rebuilt and wont last through the build without leaking
For springs go to Eibach. There UK place is near Leicester Nr A5, cant think of the address at the moment. Get the springs from there - should be reasonable prices and they're good quality with good chip resistant finish.
BV.

[Ted Andkilde]

Originally Posted by tkpm

Welcome to the forum Ted

Thanks TKPM

I've been on LCB and LocostUSA for a while. Finally getting my act together and starting a Haynes car, so...

Cheers, Ted