I hope this isn't a dumb question but I can't figure it out. I'm going to put in new OEM front shocks tomorrow, but there are no instructions. Every other shock I've seen before is held in a contracted state by a safety wire. These don't have one. How do I release them so they can move when installed? They seem to be in a locked position right now.

Thanks,

John

 

You can review the procedure in the JTIS Workshop Manual, which is available on the X100 forum or through the Internet.

The dampers are filled with hydraulic oil and nitrogen gas, so they are usually in an extended position when shipped.

 

Ok I know about the instructions, I just didn't expect them to be shipped fully extended. Thanks.

 

If you are doing this procedure remember you will need to compress the springs to get the new shock in, which can be done depending on what tools you have but it's a real pain. Many have taken the old setup with new shock(springs) and had a shop do it , they appear fairly reasonable priced. I know when I replaced my shock mounts I was 'surprised' as to what it took to get the springs compressed enough, I felt like I was working on a bomb.

 

Thanks JamMeyers, I know what you mean. I was able to borrow a spring compresor, but this is my first time. It will be interesting. You know the outcome will be worth the effort, I'll let you know how the improvment helps (front socks/ front shock mounts). I'll be getting to use my compressor's impact wrench for the first time too.

 

I would consider replacing the coil springs while you're at it. Have to take them off to replace shocks and top shock mount anyway, so it saves the labor later.

And if your front end is down more than 1/2 - 3/4 inch from normal (15.75 IIRC), you likely need new coils.

BTW, I highly recommend having a shop do the compression and replace. It is dangerous if you are not very careful and most shops will charge around $50 for the pair. Well worth it IMHO.

 

Any recommendations on source for coils springs? I'm about to replace shocks and shock mounts, and I am considering just replacing the springs (and I guess spring seats). Prices seem to vary widely, with one source cautioning that their springs are for EU market cars. How much do Euro spec and US spec coil springs vary?

Regards,
Tom

 

Tom,

You should probably launch a new thread on this. It may not get too much attention at the end of this string about changing the shocks.

John

 

Ditto to this recommendation. I did mine with the loaned spring compressor and never again. You don't need to replace the spring. But you do need to replace everything else including the upper shock mount. Any good front end shop has the stationary equipment to do the disassemble and reassemble. Don't do it your self.

 

Thanks!

With some poking around I discovered that multiple of the forum sponsors have coils springs for the XK8.

Tom

 

Ditto on the dyi removal of the coil on shocks! I did it once and never again. Way too dangerous just to save a dollar or two

 

I emailed KYB about their springs which show as a UK/EU spec. I was told they would work fine for the US models.

The catch is, once you add shipping the price doubles.