Ford Scorpio Forum
        (https://www.fordscorpio.co.uk/cgi-bin/yabb/YaBB.pl)
      

        General >> How to do things! >> Rear Shocks on a Cosworth 24v estate
        
(Message started by: Gingerbeer on May 31st, 2016, 7:28pm)
Title: Rear Shocks on a Cosworth 24v estate
Post by Gingerbeer on May 31st, 2016, 7:28pm
Not a new subject I know but couldn't find the info I needed so far.
I am getting two Monroe shocks (as suggested on this forum) tomorrow - £40 the pair - and I have been trying to get the others out. I eventually found where the top bits were and moved on from there.
My question is - when you lower the suspension parts to get the spring and the shock out - which at the moment looks impossible even with compressors, do you have to remove the drive shaft from the hub and the roll bar as well to get enough drop to get the spring out.
What a job - I am broken.
Apparently according to this forum PC police, I am broken. I am not broken, I am Kn*****ed
Cheers
Colin
Title: Re: Rear Shocks on a Cosworth 24v estate
Post by GrahamT on Jun 1st, 2016, 12:23am
I got my shock absorbers out just using spring compressors, fairly easily to be fair. I have previously dropped the whole rear subframe which was a bigger job simply because of the number of connections to seperate (brake hoses, cables, prop shaft, etc.) and the size/weight of it all but still fairly straightforward if your methodical. No hubs need to be seperated, the driveshafts, diff and all drop down as one unit.

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n36/gtoye/PICT0027.jpg (http://s108.photobucket.com/user/gtoye/media/PICT0027.jpg.html)

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n36/gtoye/PICT0014.jpg (http://s108.photobucket.com/user/gtoye/media/PICT0014.jpg.html)

Good luck!
Graham
Title: Re: Rear Shocks on a Cosworth 24v estate
Post by Snoopy on Jun 1st, 2016, 8:43am
You should find ALL the information you need in these pages http://www.fordscorpio.co.uk/transgen.htm
Hope it helps.
Title: Re: Rear Shocks on a Cosworth 24v estate
Post by Gingerbeer on Jun 1st, 2016, 8:47am
Thanks for that but wrong car. Mine is a 24v Cossie estate. I assume the one in the PDF is something else as shocks outside spring.

on 06/01/16 at 08:43:45, Snoopy wrote:
You should find ALL the information you need in these pages http://www.fordscorpio.co.uk/transgen.htm
Hope it helps.
Title: Re: Rear Shocks on a Cosworth 24v estate
Post by Gingerbeer on Jun 1st, 2016, 8:52am
Thank you for the reply. I am going for removing the springs and shocks in one go with a combination of spring compressors and allowing the suspension unit to drop down - pivot on it's mountings. My worry is by leaving the diff on the car will any damage come to the universal joints by subjecting them to quite an angle as the suspension unit hangs down.
Oh, and can you test the self leveling shocks as I can't seem to get them to move ?
Cheers
Colin


on 06/01/16 at 00:23:31, GrahamT wrote:
I got my shock absorbers out just using spring compressors, fairly easily to be fair. I have previously dropped the whole rear subframe which was a bigger job simply because of the number of connections to seperate (brake hoses, cables, prop shaft, etc.) and the size/weight of it all but still fairly straightforward if your methodical. No hubs need to be seperated, the driveshafts, diff and all drop down as one unit.

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n36/gtoye/PICT0027.jpg (http://s108.photobucket.com/user/gtoye/media/PICT0027.jpg.html)

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n36/gtoye/PICT0014.jpg (http://s108.photobucket.com/user/gtoye/media/PICT0014.jpg.html)

Good luck!
Graham
Title: Re: Rear Shocks on a Cosworth 24v estate
Post by Nunnspoet on Jun 1st, 2016, 9:00am
I have also removed a rear shock absorber from my 24 valve Cossie Estate just using Spring Compressors.

Mike   :)
Title: Re: Rear Shocks on a Cosworth 24v estate
Post by GrahamT on Jun 3rd, 2016, 1:02am
I can't remember compressing the shock absorbers but as it is something you just have to do :-) I guess I must have and if they didn't compress I'd have found that very odd so I guess they compressed too! I do actually vaguely remember them un compressing themselves now thinking about it.
Don't a n y o n e say I must be getting old  >:(
Title: Re: Rear Shocks on a Cosworth 24v estate
Post by GrahamT on Jun 3rd, 2016, 1:05am
While I'm at it, I don't think the driveshafts can hang down any lower than they do in my photo (only support is the diff on the trolley jack) so I don't think they are put under any undue stress being unsupported.
Title: Re: Rear Shocks on a Cosworth 24v estate
Post by Nunnspoet on Jun 3rd, 2016, 7:46am
They do compress okay. It is difficult using standard length compressors  as there is limited space (height). Short compressors are the answer - if you have the tools you can cut a standard set down. Be careful to squeeze the spring evenly so there is no chance of the compressors slipping, then with a bit of wiggiling you can remove the Shock absorber - fit the new Shock and release the Compressors evenly. Job done   :)
Title: Re: Rear Shocks on a Cosworth 24v estate
Post by Snoopy on Jun 3rd, 2016, 8:36am
The pages I directed ypu to DO give the procedure for removing/replacing the rear shock absorbers on the estate version http://www.fordscorpio.co.uk/manual/rearaxle/RearRSpring.pdf
I quote

Estate only
17. Unscrew the shock absorber at the top.

Move the load space carpet to one side and
remove the cover.

Unscrew the nut and remove it with the
washer.
18. Unscrew the shock absorber from the
rear axle crossmember.
19. Remove the rear spring.
Lower the rear axle crossmember and
remove the spring through the wheelhouse.
Install
NOTE:
Make sure that the rear spring is
seated correctly in the rubber cup and the
guide sleeve in the floor assembly.
20. Locate the rear spring in position.
Raise the rear axle cross

The pages I refer to are ALL taken from the FORD workshop manual which was given to us by FORD Europe and used with their permission.
Title: Re: Rear Shocks on a Cosworth 24v estate
Post by Simmo on Jun 3rd, 2016, 8:46am
I am interested to know where you obtained the Monroe shocks as I have just replaced a pair on my 2ltr estate and I had a job to locate them?.

You will be pleased to know that once you have the Monroe's in place they are slim enough to just drop out through the sub frame so avoiding the current hassle you are having.  I had the self levelling ones removed a few years back but a lower bush had gone so I've just replaced the pair.
:)
Title: Re: Rear Shocks on a Cosworth 24v estate
Post by Gingerbeer on Jun 3rd, 2016, 11:59am
Unfortunately, it turned out that they did not have any. So, still looking. I have got the spring and shock out with cut down spring compressors but am having trouble finding out how you test them when off the car. So far - from fords - you can't move them in and out like ordinary shocks but no comment as to condition if you can. I can't move mine so can I assume they are ok. The rubber covers have had it but looking to see if the Steering rack covers that are on the way, do the job. Volvo do a kit for their cars to change to ordinary shocks and springs which apparently improve the handling. Can't find a similar set up for the Cossie but tempted to fit Monroes or equivalent and keep the springs as was done by someone on this site. The springs were really hard to compress anyway. The bushes on the bottom are OK.

on 06/03/16 at 08:46:33, Simmo wrote:
I am interested to know where you obtained the Monroe shocks as I have just replaced a pair on my 2ltr estate and I had a job to locate them?.

You will be pleased to know that once you have the Monroe's in place they are slim enough to just drop out through the sub frame so avoiding the current hassle you are having.  I had the self levelling ones removed a few years back but a lower bush had gone so I've just replaced the pair.
:)
Title: Re: Rear Shocks on a Cosworth 24v estate
Post by Simmo on Jun 3rd, 2016, 4:54pm
I thought I'd have a check for these and came across a site with alternative part numbers. Some were rubbish BUT This one is not (http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/110-418-Ford-Sierra-Estate-Rear-SACHS-Shock-Absorbers-/110556446336) At £20 for a pair I'd bite his hand off. I have just spoken to the bloke and explained that although listed for the Sierra estate they do fit our cars. :) Good luck.

Update. The advert says picture is for illustration only BUT I have checked and they do have the bar fitting.
Title: Re: Rear Shocks on a Cosworth 24v estate
Post by Gingerbeer on Jun 3rd, 2016, 6:30pm
Thanks for the link. I just bought a pair as at that price, now that I have some idea how to get the originals out, it's worth a trial with the original springs. I just love the work and don't mind doing it twice ! I did read on a Volvo forum that the originals are a bit"boaty" No, not "Boaty Mac nutsfaced" - I mean "Shipface" of course.  I do love the program censor - it changed "sh*tfaced" to nutsfaced ??????
Thanks again for the link.
Cheers
Colin


on 06/03/16 at 16:54:01, Simmo wrote:
I thought I'd have a check for these and came across a site with alternative part numbers. Some were rubbish BUT This one is not (http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/110-418-Ford-Sierra-Estate-Rear-SACHS-Shock-Absorbers-/110556446336) At £20 for a pair I'd bite his hand off. I have just spoken to the bloke and explained that although listed for the Sierra estate they do fit our cars. :) Good luck.

Update. The advert says picture is for illustration only BUT I have checked and they do have the bar fitting.
Title: Re: Rear Shocks on a Cosworth 24v estate
Post by Simmo on Jun 3rd, 2016, 6:53pm
Glad you got the shocks. I did not change the springs on my car and I have had no issues. ;)
Title: Re: Rear Shocks on a Cosworth 24v estate
Post by Gingerbeer on Jul 12th, 2016, 10:13am

on 06/03/16 at 18:53:51, Simmo wrote:
Glad you got the shocks. I did not change the springs on my car and I have had no issues. ;)


Thank you everyone for your advice and help. I have fitted the shocks some time ago and all is well. I would definitely recommend the shocks as the ride is good and Wow, think of the money I have saved  ;D
I would suggest that if you have any doubts about your self levelling shocks then this is the way to go to keep your car on the road. I did notice that after you take the shocks off they are a bit wierd as you cannot move them. Ford say that is normal.
I have pictures which I may put up later.
Title: Re: Rear Shocks on a Cosworth 24v estate
Post by Gingerbeer on Jul 16th, 2016, 12:57pm

on 07/12/16 at 10:13:59, Gingerbeer wrote:

Thank you everyone for your advice and help. I have fitted the shocks some time ago and all is well. I would definitely recommend the shocks as the ride is good and Wow, think of the money I have saved  ;D
I would suggest that if you have any doubts about your self levelling shocks then this is the way to go to keep your car on the road. I did notice that after you take the shocks off they are a bit wierd as you cannot move them. Ford say that is normal.
I have pictures which I may put up later.


Here is the link already posted by member but I suggest you all get these while they are still going.
eBay item number:
110556446336
Title: Re: Rear Shocks on a Cosworth 24v estate
Post by Gingerbeer on Jan 21st, 2017, 3:25pm

on 07/12/16 at 10:13:59, Gingerbeer wrote:

Thank you everyone for your advice and help. I have fitted the shocks some time ago and all is well. I would definitely recommend the shocks as the ride is good and Wow, think of the money I have saved  ;D
I would suggest that if you have any doubts about your self levelling shocks then this is the way to go to keep your car on the road. I did notice that after you take the shocks off they are a bit wierd as you cannot move them. Ford say that is normal.
I have pictures which I may put up later.

Here is a small pdf about the swap. Hope it helps. Saves an awful lot of money even if you can get the original. https://www.dropbox.com/s/dt3zes787s7dgan/Rear%20Shocks%20details.pdf?dl=0
Title: Re: Rear Shocks on a Cosworth 24v estate
Post by Simmo on Jan 21st, 2017, 5:03pm
Colin thank you for that.  ;)
Title: Re: Rear Shocks on a Cosworth 24v estate
Post by OldTuckUnder on Aug 23rd, 2018, 11:15pm
Late question on Cosworth Estate Shocks.
Thought I'd check that the top nuts were torqued up correctly as have a few little clunks on bumpy roads.  

Que 2 hour delay when I find that one of the rear seats is jambed shut and the release button won't work, because a PO had obviously not realised that there is also a locking button behind the seat and had tried to force it. Took a couple of hours working out how to do it, took pictures as could find no thread here on that problem, so will post on how I solved it.

Anyway back to this thread, so seats dropped so I can lift estate carpet and get at the nuts at the top of the shocks.  They looked good but thought I'd check the torque on the nuts just in case. OK read all the instructions detailed above but there must be something missing, or I'm thick (could be both) So put a socket on the nut and a torque wrench and the nut turns, but so does the bolt the nut is on which I twigged after about I/2 a turn.  So how do you tighten or untighten that top nut on an estate?   Is there something down underneath that needs holding in order to tighten/loosen that top nut?  The ford instructions referenced above just say undo it or do it up, which obviously just plain won't work!
Alan
Title: Re: Rear Shocks on a Cosworth 24v estate
Post by Tompion on Aug 25th, 2018, 10:48pm
On the front shocks you use a male torx driver in the centre socket to stop it turning whilst you use a ring spanner on the nut, I assume the rear is the same.
Title: Re: Rear Shocks on a Cosworth 24v estate
Post by OldTuckUnder on Aug 25th, 2018, 11:42pm
I'll have another look tomorrow, but if someone can explain when doing up how to apply 85Nm torque using a ring spanner on the nut I'd be grateful.
Alan
Title: Re: Rear Shocks on a Cosworth 24v estate
Post by OldTuckUnder on Sep 4th, 2018, 8:47pm
Just a quick update on this had a close look before putting rear carpet back, and yes on the estate there is a hex head in the top of the stud, so to torque I think its hold the stud with an Allen bit whilst tightening nut with a ring and then when your about there, put a torque wrench on the Allen bit, put a ring on the nut and just tweak for the final correct torque.
Alan
Title: Re: Rear Shocks on a Cosworth 24v estate
Post by OldTuckUnder on Sep 18th, 2018, 5:42pm
Well having now acquired a set of good spare self levelling Estate shocks (thanks Graham!), I thought I'd reread a few of the threads on fitting, as well as the ford installation instructions for rear springs and shocks, as there seemed to be some confusion about the self levelling shocks.

MY conclusion and someone please shoot me down in flames if I'm wrong, is that one there are two types of self levelling, and that even the ford instructions aren't correct.

1) There is self levelling for the Saloon's that has a pump somewhere, and pipework to the shocks that are outside of the springs.
2) There are the self levelling shocks for the Estate that don't use a pump, have no pipework and fit within the springs.

The ford instructions at

http://www.fordscorpio.co.uk/manual/suspension/RearRSpring.pdf


Are incorrect/incomplete on this and give an impression that the estate also has a pump and pipework.

The RearRSpring.pdf, instructions were incorrectly written by Ford, if you read steps 17,18,19 they are a duplicate of 14,15,16.  I suspect that steps 17,18,19 should have been steps on how to compress and remove the spring and shock, the Estate instructions in http://www.fordscorpio.co.uk/manual/suspension/RAxleShockAbs.pdf  also seem to think that you can take the spring out and then take the shock out, which you obviously can't.

Unless the self levelling shocks on the estate were an afterthough and the instructions never updated, as it was originally designed to take the Sierra/Monroe style shock that will just drop down through the lower arm.

Thanks to individuals threads on the forum, it seems apparent that without dropping the exhaust and disconnecting drive shafts (which maybe is what makes the Ford instructions work?) That with the right size spring compressors the spring and shock can come out together. Going to try and get up on friends ramps next week and take a better look, to assess how long it might take during a slot over winter.

In no rush to change them as the bottom bushes are OK, but are starting to think they might wan't to break up at some point, and I wan't to have a go at making up replacement Polybushes, and would rather play with the set on the car rather than the ones just acquired.

Alan

PS another successful short run in the Estater yesterday, everything worked faultlessly apart from odd flicking air bag light which I will attend to in the winter. Really starting to like this car and get used to it!
Title: Re: Rear Shocks on a Cosworth 24v estate
Post by Torbayboy on Sep 18th, 2018, 6:42pm
Replaced mine (spanner did the work) with sierra estate ones as i also had s/h ones that bled all over the drive after a week. You can't test them off the car as thay don't move.
HTH  Roy
Title: Re: Rear Shocks on a Cosworth 24v estate
Post by OldTuckUnder on Sep 18th, 2018, 7:30pm
If I didn't want to use it as the tow car for the Sprint Hill Climb car, its the route I think I'd go also.
Alan
Title: Re: Rear Shocks on a Cosworth 24v estate
Post by Snoopy on Jun 20th, 2019, 7:47am
The Estate shock absorber lower bushes are now available, I bought a couple and the dimensions appear to be right but not tried fitting them yet:
https://www.buycarparts.co.uk/tedgum/8522722

Made by Tedgum part no 00224004

I started a new topic as the thread about the bushes is locked:
http://www.fordscorpio.co.uk/cgi-bin/yabb/YaBB.pl?board=admin;action=dis play;num=1282569538

The information is supplied by Tompion and added by me for your information.


Ford Scorpio Forum » Powered by YaBB 1 Gold - SP 1.3.1!
YaBB © 2000-2003. All Rights Reserved.