Source for shock actuators?

I'm still hoping someone has tried the Corvette actuators on a 355.

They look identical, the part number is only a digit different (red vs black?).

It seems the 'Vettes use a different unit in front than in rear but the leads are different lengths. That's likely the difference.

The rebuild from Captain Z is the plastic parts in the actuator (shown below).
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Hello All,
I have a maserati 3200gta, which has the same suspension system as the f355. One day i had the error light on, meaning
suspension system failure. Using the diagnostic tool from the dealer, it appeared to be one of the actuators - blocked.
Took it out and send it to captainZ. They took it apart, but the gear was ok. Got it back, so i opened up the top side (you have to cut it). It seemed to be a broken electrical connection, it was easy to solder. put everything back and o joy!. it is working again!.
Now some facts: (testing it yourself is your risc!)

The actuator differs from the corvette actuator, the ferrari actuator has 2 hall sensor's (6th wire) for position feedback,
while the corvette's actuator has only 1 hall sensor. The hall sensors uses 5 Volts, the motor you can test by applying
12 volts (max 1Amps) to the B and C terminal. reversing this changes rotation of the motor.
The gears of both corvette and ferrari are the same, so CaptainZ can perfectly exchange it for you.
Terminals:

ferrari bilstein
----------------

A=gnd
B=motor 12Volts or gnd (depends on direction)
C=motor 12volts or gnd (depends on direction)
D=+5V
E=signal1 feedback hall sensor1
F=signal2 feedback hall sensor2

corvette bilstein
-----------------
F is missing, only 1 hall sensor

Warning !!. Do not apply 12v to the hall sensors, they will breakdown!!!!!
I did not source the hall sensors yet, but the output drivers for the motor in the ECU is the
common part ta8050, its easy to replace but i don't think they break down
(it has current limiter and thermal protection).
The actuator picture shows 2 test wires which i soldered to the motor terminals, so i got it running
on the test bench, the oscilloscope showed me the pulses from the hall sensor.
The white band is put by captainz, when they echange or inspect the gears
The shiny disc sits on top of the motor shaft and has 2 magnetic teeth, which passes by the hall sensors.


Marcel
The netherlands
Maserati 3200gta with bilstein suspension system
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View attachment schematic.pdf

 

That's a great "first" post, Marcel!

Good work.

 

Awesome !!!!! 6000th post for me....................... !!!!

..............they make the actuators in black ???

 

The Corvette ones are black and the Ferrari ones are red....

 

Are the 355 actuator used on other cars ie 456?

 

I didnt understand it until I'd wasted an hour or two. You have to slide the rolled pin ONTOthe shaft of the sewing needle... Man, was that SATISFYING!

 

great posts on this problem. SHold be a stickie

 

Yup: http://www.ferrarichat.com/forum/showthread.php?p=138803382

 

Hi guys

Here in NZ we've had a number of actuator-related issues recently. On three 355's so far, the seal around the adjuster rod inside the shock shaft has failed and filled the actuator motor with shock oil, causing the actuator motor to cease working.

Two problems ensue; one, the genuine actuator motors are real expensive here; and two, I am told that the seal in question is not replaceable, and the fix is to replace the shaft with a new one, if one can be found.

I will take note of the ideas for better-priced actuator motors, for sure; but can anybody enlighten me regarding the shaft seals?

 

Peter,
I would contact Bilstein in your part of the world. Here in the USA, Bilstein rebuilds factory oem shocks for Ferrari applications for $100 each.

http://www.bilsteinus.com/services.php

 

Hi Peter,

Have you tried Autolign? They are the agents for bilstein here in NZ

"Imported, distributed and serviced by AUTOLIGN. For your nearest distributor call 0800 868 900"

Give them a try.

 

Yes, I did try Autolign, who were able to source complete shock rods from Bilstein in Germany. However, after two of these were fitted to a pair of 355 rear shocks by Bilstein's authorised rebuilders here in NZ, the actuator motors both burned out, due, it was felt, to the replacement shafts being "too hard to turn" or somesuch.

Incidentally, we cured another 355 owner's identical problem with his rear shocks by having the rebuilders replace the leaking shafts with solid items, and making up for the lack of adjustability by revalving them slightly, more in the line of a non-adjustable "fast-road, trackday" configuration. The owner says he is very pleased with the car's handling, and feels there is very little, if any, difference between the current setup and the previous adjustable arrangement.

 

Interesting.

Would you happen to know where I can get a broken actuator? I am looking to do an exchange unit but require a broken one to start from.

Do you have a photo of the seal you require? A friend of mine has a large seal company and access to most every type of seal ever made (so he claims) there is a very good chance these guys will be able to help.

 

I'll try to get hold of one of the oil-soaked items I mentioned. As for the seals, I'll find the spare shaft we've got here and strip it to see what the offending seal looks like.

 

Excellent, let me know how you get on.

 

Dave,
Thanks for the tip, I have some spare gears and roll pins from some used 355 shocks, and your tip was invaluable in getting that pin installed! What a pain, either way...took me 45 minutes to install...took 15 seconds to remove the old one, and remove the spare off the spare shock. Damn.