So I have concluded that I badly need new shocks on the rear of my xj6. Service records tell me that the front, and only the front for some reason, were replaced just a few years ago. My question is, is there any difference in length, etc between 94 and 93? Hopefully someone will know haha, Title says the car is 94, ordered shocks (and all related bushings) for 94-97 as listed, buuuut the door plate says the car was built 10/93, so I am really hoping I ordered the right sets. Any experts around?

 

I have installed the same part number shocks on both my 92 and 94. I believe if you try cross referencing 93 and 94 you can get quick confirmation. Good luck.

 

Don't go by the year, the only reliable way to check parts compatibility is by the VIN -

There is a changeover in rear shocks on the late models, I believe it is from VIN # 696460 - these late models have the X300 cast wishbones and use a different shock and attachment than earlier cars.

see parts catalog and check for yourself here:

https://www.jaguarclassicparts.com/u...d-stop-rubbers

Larry

 

Hi sKraat,

Just to add to the excellent info you've received already, your original shocks were probably made by Boge, or possibly Bilstein. As far as I know replacements are still available from both companies. The Bilsteins tend to be a little firmer, but if your car has the cast lower control arms as on the X300 your original shocks were probably Bilsteins..The second time I replaced the rear shocks on our '93, I found a good deal on a pair of Sachs and found they performed identically to the original Boges, with an excellent combination of comfortable ride and sporty handling (Boge and Sachs are both now owned by ZF, the manufacturer of the steering rack and transmission in your Jag).

Over the years some owners have tried less-expensive brands like Monroe and KYB, and my impression is that overall they have been satisfied. Just be sure the new shocks you purchase come with the two cylindrical yellow foam rubber bushings, parts 10 and 12 in the diagram below, and especially the lower shock bushing or "spherical joint," part 33, or you'll have to purchase them separately. The spherical joints in particular have become hard to find and very expensive, often costing more than an entire new shock absorber from Boge, Sachs or Bilstein that includes all those bushings.

You will also need the large yellow foam rubber spring isolator bushings, or "donuts," part 5, and the small rubber locator bushings or "top hats," part 11. You will probably find that the top hats are completely disintegrated. Your donuts may look fine, but over time they compress, which results in loss of ride height. You'll typically regain 3/8 in. to as much as 1/2 in. by replacing them. Also, before you reassemble all the new bushings on your new shocks, lubricate all the contact surfaces with lithium grease or you'll risk dry squeaks that will drive you crazy.

At the link in my signature you'll find photo albums on the rear shock replacement process. Sorry the large images are still down at Jag-Lovers, but the thumbnails and descriptions may be helpful.

This diagram is for cars from VIN 696460:




Cheers,

Don