Update:

Wayne and I got together again yesterday morning under perfect autumn skies and replaced the right rear shock. This time we took batroute's advice and removed the rear hub, then swung it to the rear to give us plenty of access room to the shock assembly. Wayne knew as soon as he removed the original shock that it was faulty. The clips that he made out of paint can openers to hold the new upper shock components in place (instead of using zip ties that tend to stretch and break) worked like a charm, especially after squeezing everything down in his 20-ton press, then tightening the three spring compressors and custom clips before removing the entire assembly from the press and working it up into place inside the wheel well. From that point it was just a matter of getting everything lined up and back into its proper place, reinstalling the nuts and bolts exactly as we had marked them prior to disassembly, and putting the brake components back together....

After a leisurely and extended lunch with Wayne and his lovely wife Christine under the big oak trees shading their home shop, it was time for the two-hour trip home. What a difference! Whisper-quiet, not a single rattle, and a much better rear-end ride....

We fixed the car and had a fantastic day together under gorgeous autumn skies. It just doesn't get any better than that, and now we're ready to do Wayne's XK8's rear shocks when the time comes....

Thanks again, Wayne! What a great day....

 

Well done - so satisfying isn't it when you fix it yourself!

Just for anybody else attempting this repair I see and hear your warning about using zip clips- the first side I did the zip clips did let go so I bought some heavy duty ones( check the spec on the label) from harbor freight and they were fine- but whatever works!

 

Jon and Batroute, I'm so happy all is well in the rear and Jan is happy. Now for the real object of the day---Eating Jan's ham sandwiches and cookies, I know I sure worked faster. if you can help Jon do any work on his car, make sure Jan is home.
Really had a good time and look forward to Jon and his wife coming down to see the North Carolina Transportation Museum.


All the Best, Wayne

 

Thanks Wayne! Jan is thrilled that her car is quiet again, and I am relieved that Jan is quiet again. As you know, that was my primary goal....

We really look forward to the museum tour with you and Christine. Once Jan's schedule clears up regarding her volunteer Guardian Ad Litem casework, I'll let you know....

Now, go hit the little white ball with your buddies....

 

Been following this with interest. Well done.

BTW, a little OT but a gal who is a dear friend does Guardian Ad Litem work in Va. Could hardly be a better use of one's time. You should be very proud of Jan. Plus those cookies. Could it get any better?

 

A pal with a lathe skimmed an old 40mm bush outer and skimmed the inside so it fitted over the rubber dust cover which made the job very easy. I changed both rear bushes in 2 and a half hours.
As alternative to using spring compressors, pop a couple of bags of cement in the boot!