Shocks

I have a 86' 328 with fewer than 19,000 miles and am wondering if it might be time to get the shocks rebuilt. I've owned the car for three years so I don't know what it drove like when it was new, but the roads are very rough in my area, so the car rides a bit rough, including crashing a bit over larger bumps. I expect it to ride like a sports car, but I'm just wondering if the shocks might be a bit worn out after almost thirty years. I appreciate any input.

 

I would venture to guess that the bushings are closer to shot than the shocks; unless thay have been replaced in the last decade.

 

Yep. Dead rubber before most else... Dealing with that on a well-cared for 2006!

 

As the others suggested first check rubber bushings to see if they are dry rotted or cracked. Since 86 most likely bad. Then look for fluid leaks around shaft. If no leaks, do a bounce test on all four corners. After depressing the car should bounce once and return to normal height. However, if bushings can't be independently replaced then replace all four shocks provided they have new bushings included in kit.

 

I did notice that the bushings are cracked and so I'll replace them, but will the shocks maintain their performance level for thirty years? Wouldn't there be considerable fall off regardless of the miles? While I'm replacing the bushings wouldn't it be worth it from a performance standpoint to have the shocks rebuilt as well?

 

If your shocks are Koni hydraulic, they can be adjusted for wear. Google Koni shock adjustment. Remove shock, bottom shaft, count turns CC to stop, then go 1/4 turn more.


Ago

 

The only way to test a shock is on a shock dyno. Racers feel that shocks are so important that even club racers rebuild them annually. Nothing awakens the chassis of an old car like bushings and shocks. You might have still consumer acceptable shock function but IMO those shocks are long past dead at 30 years. Ping Rob at DeltaVee and have a chat with him. He works magic.

 

I would go with the bushing first. I had Brian Crall change all the bushings on my 87 Mondial last year and it did improve the ride and performance.

For your information, Koni will charge about a $1000 to rebuild the shocks on your car.