Google Groups no longer supports new Usenet posts or subscriptions. Historical content remains viewable.
Dismiss
Subaru self levelling suspension
163 views
Skip to first unread message
John_H
Jun 5, 2021, 7:32:44 PM6/5/21
to
My 3.0R Outback came with it.
Handling has always been quirky, downright treacherous on some
surfaces, although I wouldn't expect it to be a major problem on
decent roads. Whether it's down to the self levelling feature or
inherent to the basic suspension design I'm unsure.
One of the self levelling shocks has just shat itself so it's now
decision time.
Cost of replacing the necessary parts is around $2,200 retail whereas
$250 for a pair of aftermarket KYB shocks would give me a standard
suspension.
Question is would getting rid of the self levelling feature be likely
to improve the handling issues, especially on uneven road surfaces
(noting that the car would no longer be ADR compliant because of its
HID headlamps)?
--
John H
Handling has always been quirky, downright treacherous on some
surfaces, although I wouldn't expect it to be a major problem on
decent roads. Whether it's down to the self levelling feature or
inherent to the basic suspension design I'm unsure.
One of the self levelling shocks has just shat itself so it's now
decision time.
Cost of replacing the necessary parts is around $2,200 retail whereas
$250 for a pair of aftermarket KYB shocks would give me a standard
suspension.
Question is would getting rid of the self levelling feature be likely
to improve the handling issues, especially on uneven road surfaces
(noting that the car would no longer be ADR compliant because of its
HID headlamps)?
--
John H
Daryl
Jun 5, 2021, 9:15:11 PM6/5/21
to
On 6/6/21 9:32 am, John_H wrote:
> My 3.0R Outback came with it.
>
> Handling has always been quirky, downright treacherous on some
> surfaces, although I wouldn't expect it to be a major problem on
> decent roads. Whether it's down to the self levelling feature or
> inherent to the basic suspension design I'm unsure.
That would depend on what controls the self leveling?
> My 3.0R Outback came with it.
>
> Handling has always been quirky, downright treacherous on some
> surfaces, although I wouldn't expect it to be a major problem on
> decent roads. Whether it's down to the self levelling feature or
> inherent to the basic suspension design I'm unsure.
Most likely hydraulic with a pump?
If so they can be slow so it could cause problems with handling at speed.
>
> One of the self levelling shocks has just shat itself so it's now
> decision time.
>
> Cost of replacing the necessary parts is around $2,200 retail whereas
> $250 for a pair of aftermarket KYB shocks would give me a standard
> suspension.
>
> Question is would getting rid of the self levelling feature be likely
> to improve the handling issues, especially on uneven road surfaces
> (noting that the car would no longer be ADR compliant because of its
> HID headlamps)?
>
IMHO its very likely aftermarket shocks would improve handling but the
> One of the self levelling shocks has just shat itself so it's now
> decision time.
>
> Cost of replacing the necessary parts is around $2,200 retail whereas
> $250 for a pair of aftermarket KYB shocks would give me a standard
> suspension.
>
> Question is would getting rid of the self levelling feature be likely
> to improve the handling issues, especially on uneven road surfaces
> (noting that the car would no longer be ADR compliant because of its
> HID headlamps)?
>
quality/price of the replacement shocks will make a difference to how much.
Shock on the mates race cars can be more than $2k for a pair and even
then its no guarantee that they will be spot on but at least the more
expensive shocks are fully adjustable and rebuild able.
--
Daryl
Clocky
Jun 5, 2021, 10:02:28 PM6/5/21
to
about what you can expect and legalities, even if it's just to pick
their brains.
Anyone here would just be googling, myself included, as I'm not really
familiar with the system though I believe they are a self-contained
system so you don't have to worry about lines etc.
(correct me if I'm wrong)
Noddy
Jun 5, 2021, 11:22:19 PM6/5/21
to
anything like other systems I've seen and you don't give a crap about
the non compliance issue then I would recommend removing the self
leveling stuff and fitting standard shocks.
Ford Fairlanes had optional rear self leveling systems for a few years,
and they were miserable things. Apart from the lack of reliability which
was a Ford issue that probably doesn't affect the Subaru and the
overnight "sink" habit they were known for, they were as floaty as
buggery and made an already average handling car a bit of a handful on
anything other than the smoothest of roads.
Pulling it out and replacing it with a set of standard rear shocks
solved the problem completely.
--
--
--
Regards,
Noddy.
John_H
Jun 6, 2021, 1:18:53 AM6/6/21
to
Daryl wrote:
>On 6/6/21 9:32 am, John_H wrote:
>> My 3.0R Outback came with it.
>>
>> Handling has always been quirky, downright treacherous on some
>> surfaces, although I wouldn't expect it to be a major problem on
>> decent roads. Whether it's down to the self levelling feature or
>> inherent to the basic suspension design I'm unsure.
>
>That would depend on what controls the self leveling?
>Most likely hydraulic with a pump?
It's all done with shock absorbers. There's an explanation of how it
>On 6/6/21 9:32 am, John_H wrote:
>> My 3.0R Outback came with it.
>>
>> Handling has always been quirky, downright treacherous on some
>> surfaces, although I wouldn't expect it to be a major problem on
>> decent roads. Whether it's down to the self levelling feature or
>> inherent to the basic suspension design I'm unsure.
>
>That would depend on what controls the self leveling?
>Most likely hydraulic with a pump?
works here.... https://tinyurl.com/c3353a2s
>If so they can be slow so it could cause problems with handling at speed.
>>
>> One of the self levelling shocks has just shat itself so it's now
>> decision time.
>>
>> Cost of replacing the necessary parts is around $2,200 retail whereas
>> $250 for a pair of aftermarket KYB shocks would give me a standard
>> suspension.
>>
>> Question is would getting rid of the self levelling feature be likely
>> to improve the handling issues, especially on uneven road surfaces
>> (noting that the car would no longer be ADR compliant because of its
>> HID headlamps)?
>>
>IMHO its very likely aftermarket shocks would improve handling but the
>quality/price of the replacement shocks will make a difference to how much.
>Shock on the mates race cars can be more than $2k for a pair and even
>then its no guarantee that they will be spot on but at least the more
>expensive shocks are fully adjustable and rebuild able.
but as with most rebuildable shocks it's probably impossible to buy
the parts. In the past I've paid others, who claim to have access to
the parts, to rebuild Konis but have never been happy with the
results.
--
John H
John_H
Jun 6, 2021, 1:18:54 AM6/6/21
to
levelling shock absorber unit.
At this stage I'll simply replace those units with KYB gas shocks and
see how it goes but I suspect the springs are lighter than those on
the standard suspension. Since the self levelling suspension isn't
universal across the model range it's not covered in the factory
service manual and hence there's no data on spring rates.
Likewise there are a number of conversion kits available (mostly at
exorbitant prices) but no data on spring rates or dimensions I can
find.
Be handy to find someone who's done the conversion, or knows someone
who has, and with what result. Hence the reason for the post.
I don't expect the HID headlamps to be an issue, apart from ADR, as I
do very little night driving these days. If absolutely necessary they
could probably be replaced with whatever the basic models had (at a
price).
--
John H
Clocky
Jun 6, 2021, 2:51:43 AM6/6/21
to
https://pedders.co.uk/pedders-rear-suspension-conversion-kit-standard-height-subaru-outback-bp-803055
Since the self levelling suspension isn't
> universal across the model range it's not covered in the factory
> service manual and hence there's no data on spring rates.
>
> Likewise there are a number of conversion kits available (mostly at
> exorbitant prices) but no data on spring rates or dimensions I can
> find.
>
that data even if it it isn't available online.
> Be handy to find someone who's done the conversion, or knows someone
> who has, and with what result. Hence the reason for the post.
>
> I don't expect the HID headlamps to be an issue, apart from ADR, as I
> do very little night driving these days. If absolutely necessary they
> could probably be replaced with whatever the basic models had (at a
> price).
>
Xeno
Jun 6, 2021, 7:09:17 AM6/6/21
to
On 6/6/21 1:22 pm, Noddy wrote:
> On 6/06/2021 9:32 am, John_H wrote:
>> My 3.0R Outback came with it.
>>
>> Handling has always been quirky, downright treacherous on some
>> surfaces, although I wouldn't expect it to be a major problem on
>> decent roads. Whether it's down to the self levelling feature or
>> inherent to the basic suspension design I'm unsure.
>>
>> One of the self levelling shocks has just shat itself so it's now
>> decision time.
>>
>> Cost of replacing the necessary parts is around $2,200 retail whereas
>> $250 for a pair of aftermarket KYB shocks would give me a standard
>> suspension.
>>
>> Question is would getting rid of the self levelling feature be likely
>> to improve the handling issues, especially on uneven road surfaces
>> (noting that the car would no longer be ADR compliant because of its
>> HID headlamps)?
>
> I have no direct experience with the Subaru system, but If they're
Well, no need for you to say anything then.
> On 6/06/2021 9:32 am, John_H wrote:
>> My 3.0R Outback came with it.
>>
>> Handling has always been quirky, downright treacherous on some
>> surfaces, although I wouldn't expect it to be a major problem on
>> decent roads. Whether it's down to the self levelling feature or
>> inherent to the basic suspension design I'm unsure.
>>
>> One of the self levelling shocks has just shat itself so it's now
>> decision time.
>>
>> Cost of replacing the necessary parts is around $2,200 retail whereas
>> $250 for a pair of aftermarket KYB shocks would give me a standard
>> suspension.
>>
>> Question is would getting rid of the self levelling feature be likely
>> to improve the handling issues, especially on uneven road surfaces
>> (noting that the car would no longer be ADR compliant because of its
>> HID headlamps)?
>
> I have no direct experience with the Subaru system, but If they're
> anything like other systems I've seen and you don't give a crap about
anything. Given your track record, it would be a lie anyway.
> the non compliance issue then I would recommend removing the self
> leveling stuff and fitting standard shocks.
>
> Ford Fairlanes had optional rear self leveling systems for a few years,
> and they were miserable things. Apart from the lack of reliability which
> was a Ford issue that probably doesn't affect the Subaru and the
> overnight "sink" habit they were known for, they were as floaty as
> buggery and made an already average handling car a bit of a handful on
> anything other than the smoothest of roads.
>
> Pulling it out and replacing it with a set of standard rear shocks
> solved the problem completely.
>
Oh, yes, and I see you *inserted yourself* into the story. SOP for you.
> Pulling it out and replacing it with a set of standard rear shocks
> solved the problem completely.
>
--
Xeno
Nothing astonishes Noddy so much as common sense and plain dealing.
(with apologies to Ralph Waldo Emerson)
Noddy
Jun 6, 2021, 7:40:04 AM6/6/21
to
On 6/06/2021 3:18 pm, John_H wrote:
> Clocky wrote:
> Clocky wrote:
> At this stage I'll simply replace those units with KYB gas shocks and
> see how it goes but I suspect the springs are lighter than those on
> the standard suspension. Since the self levelling suspension isn't
> universal across the model range it's not covered in the factory
> service manual and hence there's no data on spring rates.
>
> Likewise there are a number of conversion kits available (mostly at
> exorbitant prices) but no data on spring rates or dimensions I can
> find.
>
> Be handy to find someone who's done the conversion, or knows someone
> who has, and with what result. Hence the reason for the post.
Suby specific forums are likely to be more helpful than anything you'd
> see how it goes but I suspect the springs are lighter than those on
> the standard suspension. Since the self levelling suspension isn't
> universal across the model range it's not covered in the factory
> service manual and hence there's no data on spring rates.
>
> Likewise there are a number of conversion kits available (mostly at
> exorbitant prices) but no data on spring rates or dimensions I can
> find.
>
> Be handy to find someone who's done the conversion, or knows someone
> who has, and with what result. Hence the reason for the post.
find here, but bear in mind that trying to work out whether it will give
you a ride that you like will be impossible to do over the internet.
Ride quality is ass subjective as chocolate ice cream. Some people would
probably drive your Suby and love the way it handles.
In short, you may get the skinny one how easy it is to change, but
you'll have to try it yourself to see if you like it. If it's anything
like swapping from self leveling to conventional in a Fairlane you'll
love it :)
> I don't expect the HID headlamps to be an issue, apart from ADR, as I
> do very little night driving these days. If absolutely necessary they
> could probably be replaced with whatever the basic models had (at a
> price).
Daryl
Jun 6, 2021, 10:09:25 AM6/6/21
to
On 6/6/21 3:18 pm, John_H wrote:
> Daryl wrote:
>> On 6/6/21 9:32 am, John_H wrote:
>>> My 3.0R Outback came with it.
>>>
>>> Handling has always been quirky, downright treacherous on some
>>> surfaces, although I wouldn't expect it to be a major problem on
>>> decent roads. Whether it's down to the self levelling feature or
>>> inherent to the basic suspension design I'm unsure.
>>
>> That would depend on what controls the self leveling?
>> Most likely hydraulic with a pump?
>
> It's all done with shock absorbers. There's an explanation of how it
> works here.... https://tinyurl.com/c3353a2s
So hydraulic but all contained in the shock.
> Daryl wrote:
>> On 6/6/21 9:32 am, John_H wrote:
>>> My 3.0R Outback came with it.
>>>
>>> Handling has always been quirky, downright treacherous on some
>>> surfaces, although I wouldn't expect it to be a major problem on
>>> decent roads. Whether it's down to the self levelling feature or
>>> inherent to the basic suspension design I'm unsure.
>>
>> That would depend on what controls the self leveling?
>> Most likely hydraulic with a pump?
>
> It's all done with shock absorbers. There's an explanation of how it
> works here.... https://tinyurl.com/c3353a2s
>
>> If so they can be slow so it could cause problems with handling at speed.
>>>
>>> One of the self levelling shocks has just shat itself so it's now
>>> decision time.
>>>
>>> Cost of replacing the necessary parts is around $2,200 retail whereas
>>> $250 for a pair of aftermarket KYB shocks would give me a standard
>>> suspension.
>>>
>>> Question is would getting rid of the self levelling feature be likely
>>> to improve the handling issues, especially on uneven road surfaces
>>> (noting that the car would no longer be ADR compliant because of its
>>> HID headlamps)?
>>>
>> IMHO its very likely aftermarket shocks would improve handling but the
>> quality/price of the replacement shocks will make a difference to how much.
>> Shock on the mates race cars can be more than $2k for a pair and even
>> then its no guarantee that they will be spot on but at least the more
>> expensive shocks are fully adjustable and rebuild able.
>
> Interestingly the OEM self levelling shocks appear to be rebuildable
> but as with most rebuildable shocks it's probably impossible to buy
> the parts. In the past I've paid others, who claim to have access to
> the parts, to rebuild Konis but have never been happy with the
> results.
>
Rebuilding shocks seems to be as much art as science, I know someone
>> If so they can be slow so it could cause problems with handling at speed.
>>>
>>> One of the self levelling shocks has just shat itself so it's now
>>> decision time.
>>>
>>> Cost of replacing the necessary parts is around $2,200 retail whereas
>>> $250 for a pair of aftermarket KYB shocks would give me a standard
>>> suspension.
>>>
>>> Question is would getting rid of the self levelling feature be likely
>>> to improve the handling issues, especially on uneven road surfaces
>>> (noting that the car would no longer be ADR compliant because of its
>>> HID headlamps)?
>>>
>> IMHO its very likely aftermarket shocks would improve handling but the
>> quality/price of the replacement shocks will make a difference to how much.
>> Shock on the mates race cars can be more than $2k for a pair and even
>> then its no guarantee that they will be spot on but at least the more
>> expensive shocks are fully adjustable and rebuild able.
>
> Interestingly the OEM self levelling shocks appear to be rebuildable
> but as with most rebuildable shocks it's probably impossible to buy
> the parts. In the past I've paid others, who claim to have access to
> the parts, to rebuild Konis but have never been happy with the
> results.
>
locally who has made a very good living doing his magic on shocks mostly
for dirt bike racing.
--
Daryl
Clocky
Jun 6, 2021, 8:34:53 PM6/6/21
to
On 6/06/2021 7:39 pm, Noddy wrote:
> On 6/06/2021 3:18 pm, John_H wrote:
>> Clocky wrote:
>
>> At this stage I'll simply replace those units with KYB gas shocks and
>> see how it goes but I suspect the springs are lighter than those on
>> the standard suspension. Since the self levelling suspension isn't
>> universal across the model range it's not covered in the factory
>> service manual and hence there's no data on spring rates.
>>
>> Likewise there are a number of conversion kits available (mostly at
>> exorbitant prices) but no data on spring rates or dimensions I can
>> find.
>>
>> Be handy to find someone who's done the conversion, or knows someone
>> who has, and with what result. Hence the reason for the post.
>
> Suby specific forums are likely to be more helpful
Or make things worse. Opinionated self proclaimed "experts" like you
> On 6/06/2021 3:18 pm, John_H wrote:
>> Clocky wrote:
>
>> At this stage I'll simply replace those units with KYB gas shocks and
>> see how it goes but I suspect the springs are lighter than those on
>> the standard suspension. Since the self levelling suspension isn't
>> universal across the model range it's not covered in the factory
>> service manual and hence there's no data on spring rates.
>>
>> Likewise there are a number of conversion kits available (mostly at
>> exorbitant prices) but no data on spring rates or dimensions I can
>> find.
>>
>> Be handy to find someone who's done the conversion, or knows someone
>> who has, and with what result. Hence the reason for the post.
>
> Suby specific forums are likely to be more helpful
tend to hang out in forums and will give you a bum steer but are just as
clueless as you are. Centrifugal force in the CV's in spades :-)
BTW, for a bloke who had a big girls blouse sook about people jumping in
on conversations you sure make a habit of it. Fucking hypocrite!
alvey
Jun 6, 2021, 9:41:52 PM6/6/21
to
On Sun, 6 Jun 2021 21:09:12 +1000, Xeno wrote:
> On 6/6/21 1:22 pm, Noddy wrote:
>> On 6/06/2021 9:32 am, John_H wrote:
>>> My 3.0R Outback came with it.
>>>
>>> Handling has always been quirky, downright treacherous on some
>>> surfaces, although I wouldn't expect it to be a major problem on
>>> decent roads. Whether it's down to the self levelling feature or
>>> inherent to the basic suspension design I'm unsure.
>>>
>>> One of the self levelling shocks has just shat itself so it's now
>>> decision time.
>>>
>>> Cost of replacing the necessary parts is around $2,200 retail whereas
>>> $250 for a pair of aftermarket KYB shocks would give me a standard
>>> suspension.
>>>
>>> Question is would getting rid of the self levelling feature be likely
>>> to improve the handling issues, especially on uneven road surfaces
>>> (noting that the car would no longer be ADR compliant because of its
>>> HID headlamps)?
>>
>> I have no direct experience with the Subaru system, but If they're
>
> Well, no need for you to say anything then.
Dreamer.
> On 6/6/21 1:22 pm, Noddy wrote:
>> On 6/06/2021 9:32 am, John_H wrote:
>>> My 3.0R Outback came with it.
>>>
>>> Handling has always been quirky, downright treacherous on some
>>> surfaces, although I wouldn't expect it to be a major problem on
>>> decent roads. Whether it's down to the self levelling feature or
>>> inherent to the basic suspension design I'm unsure.
>>>
>>> One of the self levelling shocks has just shat itself so it's now
>>> decision time.
>>>
>>> Cost of replacing the necessary parts is around $2,200 retail whereas
>>> $250 for a pair of aftermarket KYB shocks would give me a standard
>>> suspension.
>>>
>>> Question is would getting rid of the self levelling feature be likely
>>> to improve the handling issues, especially on uneven road surfaces
>>> (noting that the car would no longer be ADR compliant because of its
>>> HID headlamps)?
>>
>> I have no direct experience with the Subaru system, but If they're
>
> Well, no need for you to say anything then.
>
>> anything like other systems I've seen and you don't give a crap about
>
> You've only *seen* other systems? Definitely no need for you to say
> anything. Given your track record, it would be a lie anyway.
>
>> the non compliance issue then I would recommend removing the self
>> leveling stuff and fitting standard shocks.
>>
>> Ford Fairlanes had optional rear self leveling systems for a few years,
>> and they were miserable things. Apart from the lack of reliability which
>> was a Ford issue that probably doesn't affect the Subaru and the
>> overnight "sink" habit they were known for, they were as floaty as
>> buggery and made an already average handling car a bit of a handful on
>> anything other than the smoothest of roads.
>
> Googled story Noddy? Not relevant to the Subaru.
>>
>> Pulling it out and replacing it with a set of standard rear shocks
>> solved the problem completely.
>>
> Oh, yes, and I see you *inserted yourself* into the story. SOP for you.
Very much so. It's what sociopaths do.
>> anything like other systems I've seen and you don't give a crap about
>
> You've only *seen* other systems? Definitely no need for you to say
> anything. Given your track record, it would be a lie anyway.
>
>> the non compliance issue then I would recommend removing the self
>> leveling stuff and fitting standard shocks.
>>
>> Ford Fairlanes had optional rear self leveling systems for a few years,
>> and they were miserable things. Apart from the lack of reliability which
>> was a Ford issue that probably doesn't affect the Subaru and the
>> overnight "sink" habit they were known for, they were as floaty as
>> buggery and made an already average handling car a bit of a handful on
>> anything other than the smoothest of roads.
>
> Googled story Noddy? Not relevant to the Subaru.
>>
>> Pulling it out and replacing it with a set of standard rear shocks
>> solved the problem completely.
>>
> Oh, yes, and I see you *inserted yourself* into the story. SOP for you.
I'm surprised the Fraudster didn't mention these, "I bought a ZL (1987)
model Fairlane in late '88 for a tad over 30 grand...". Or this equally
blatant lie, “Travelling towards the city along the Westgate freeway at 130
miles per hour in pissing down rain in a ZC Fairlane when the steering drag
link dropped off the idler arm…” Darren, 14Jul01
alvey
Amazed that the Fraudster admits to having no knowledge of Subis. Aside
from those shedloads of cards he *claims* to have bought over the years,
one would have thought that a garage in a working-middle class area would
have had a fair number of them through. They were pretty popular during the
life span of the fabled NA of Altona. Odd.
Xeno
Jun 6, 2021, 11:54:51 PM6/6/21
to
spouted bullshit he naturally inserted himself into. His overinflated ego
knows no bounds!
———
Xeno
John_H
Jun 8, 2021, 1:12:25 AM6/8/21
to
Clocky wrote:
>On 6/06/2021 1:18 pm, John_H wrote:
>>
>> At this stage I'll simply replace those units with KYB gas shocks and
>> see how it goes but I suspect the springs are lighter than those on
>> the standard suspension.
>
>I would expect so as the kits have a different spring. See here:
>https://pedders.co.uk/pedders-rear-suspension-conversion-kit-standard-height-subaru-outback-bp-803055
That listing is a bit confusing in that, apart from being a UK site,
>On 6/06/2021 1:18 pm, John_H wrote:
>>
>> At this stage I'll simply replace those units with KYB gas shocks and
>> see how it goes but I suspect the springs are lighter than those on
>> the standard suspension.
>
>I would expect so as the kits have a different spring. See here:
>https://pedders.co.uk/pedders-rear-suspension-conversion-kit-standard-height-subaru-outback-bp-803055
the part number for the spring comes up as a "Sportsryder" on Pedder's
au site which is their suspension lowering range. Although it does
tend to confirm my suspicion that the self levelling set up uses
lighter springs but for some strange reason their kit doesn't include
"top hats" which should be be a different part for heavier springs.
Nor have I ever been a great fan of Pedder springs which are all
single rate AFAIK (lke those shown) whereas most, if not all, OEM
springs are progressive rate these days as are many of the aftermarket
offerings. (Progressives have a definite advantage over single rate,
especially on rough roads.)
Update: Managed to get our resident mechanic (who's up to his neck,
as usual) to fit the KYB shocks to the existing springs. They've
certainly ftightened up the suspension and the tendency for the rear
end to steer the car on rough surfaces is no longer obvious so it
would seem to be the way to go. Haven't yet driven it far enough to
decide but I suspect I wil be looking for heavier springs which match
the original ride height or are slightly higher.
--
John H
Clocky
Jun 8, 2021, 3:11:13 AM6/8/21
to
On 8/06/2021 1:12 pm, John_H wrote:
> Clocky wrote:
>> On 6/06/2021 1:18 pm, John_H wrote:
>>>
>>> At this stage I'll simply replace those units with KYB gas shocks and
>>> see how it goes but I suspect the springs are lighter than those on
>>> the standard suspension.
>>
>> I would expect so as the kits have a different spring. See here:
>> https://pedders.co.uk/pedders-rear-suspension-conversion-kit-standard-height-subaru-outback-bp-803055
>
> That listing is a bit confusing in that, apart from being a UK site,
> the part number for the spring comes up as a "Sportsryder" on Pedder's
> au site which is their suspension lowering range. Although it does
> tend to confirm my suspicion that the self levelling set up uses
> lighter springs
That's what the link alludes to which is the only reason I posted it
> Clocky wrote:
>> On 6/06/2021 1:18 pm, John_H wrote:
>>>
>>> At this stage I'll simply replace those units with KYB gas shocks and
>>> see how it goes but I suspect the springs are lighter than those on
>>> the standard suspension.
>>
>> I would expect so as the kits have a different spring. See here:
>> https://pedders.co.uk/pedders-rear-suspension-conversion-kit-standard-height-subaru-outback-bp-803055
>
> That listing is a bit confusing in that, apart from being a UK site,
> the part number for the spring comes up as a "Sportsryder" on Pedder's
> au site which is their suspension lowering range. Although it does
> tend to confirm my suspicion that the self levelling set up uses
> lighter springs
(not as a recommendation for Pedders springs)
but for some strange reason their kit doesn't include
> "top hats" which should be be a different part for heavier springs.
>
they would already be rated for the heavier spring I would suggest.
> Nor have I ever been a great fan of Pedder springs which are all
> single rate AFAIK (lke those shown) whereas most, if not all, OEM
> springs are progressive rate these days as are many of the aftermarket
> offerings. (Progressives have a definite advantage over single rate,
> especially on rough roads.)
> > Update: Managed to get our resident mechanic (who's up to his neck,
> as usual) to fit the KYB shocks to the existing springs. They've
> certainly ftightened up the suspension and the tendency for the rear
> end to steer the car on rough surfaces is no longer obvious so it
> would seem to be the way to go. Haven't yet driven it far enough to
> decide but I suspect I wil be looking for heavier springs which match
> the original ride height or are slightly higher.
>
John_H
Jun 8, 2021, 6:16:04 PM6/8/21
to
Clocky wrote:
>On 8/06/2021 1:12 pm, John_H wrote:
>> Clocky wrote:
>>> On 6/06/2021 1:18 pm, John_H wrote:
>>>>
>>>> At this stage I'll simply replace those units with KYB gas shocks and
>>>> see how it goes but I suspect the springs are lighter than those on
>>>> the standard suspension.
>>>
>>> I would expect so as the kits have a different spring. See here:
>>> https://pedders.co.uk/pedders-rear-suspension-conversion-kit-standard-height-subaru-outback-bp-803055
>>
>> That listing is a bit confusing in that, apart from being a UK site,
>> the part number for the spring comes up as a "Sportsryder" on Pedder's
>> au site which is their suspension lowering range. Although it does
>> tend to confirm my suspicion that the self levelling set up uses
>> lighter springs
>
>That's what the link alludes to which is the only reason I posted it
>(not as a recommendation for Pedders springs)
I gathered that might be the case and I generally stay well clear of
>On 8/06/2021 1:12 pm, John_H wrote:
>> Clocky wrote:
>>> On 6/06/2021 1:18 pm, John_H wrote:
>>>>
>>>> At this stage I'll simply replace those units with KYB gas shocks and
>>>> see how it goes but I suspect the springs are lighter than those on
>>>> the standard suspension.
>>>
>>> I would expect so as the kits have a different spring. See here:
>>> https://pedders.co.uk/pedders-rear-suspension-conversion-kit-standard-height-subaru-outback-bp-803055
>>
>> That listing is a bit confusing in that, apart from being a UK site,
>> the part number for the spring comes up as a "Sportsryder" on Pedder's
>> au site which is their suspension lowering range. Although it does
>> tend to confirm my suspicion that the self levelling set up uses
>> lighter springs
>
>That's what the link alludes to which is the only reason I posted it
>(not as a recommendation for Pedders springs)
Pedder's franchisees based on past experience with them (they used to
be sole agent for Koni and possibly still area)
>
>but for some strange reason their kit doesn't include
>> "top hats" which should be be a different part for heavier springs.
>>
>
>Not necessarily. If they are the same as the non-leveling suspension
>they would already be rated for the heavier spring I would suggest.
without having both in hand to compare I don't know how they differ
but it's something I'll need to watch if go for aftermarket springs.
It's also generally recommended that the top hats are replaced any
time the shocks are changed which also makes it a bit odd that Pedders
don't include them in their kit whereas others do.
--
John H
0 new messages