Hi all, I’ve got a 2004 1.2 8v with 87,000 miles. Have just noticed that the front shock absorbers have started to leak again (standard Fiat ones! :bang after just 50,000 miles. I want to do a proper job so I have a few questions to ask.

Just found some Koni STR.T's on eBay, I’m just wondering if they are any good?

In addition, I know the springs are original, so it worthwhile replacing them as well?

Thirdly, the strut top mounts have only done 45,000 miles so should I just leave them or replace them?

I will be replacing the drop links out of good measure and will probably keep the wishbones (only done 20K since they were changed).

The rear end seems quite bouncy over undulating surfaces (springs and shocks are totally original) so should I also consider replacing them too?

Give me your thoughts on what I should do, cheers, Adam .

Good luck getting clear, helpful, sensible advice from this Forum! Most simple requests for advice on oil, spark plugs or shock-absorbers for the most basic of cars degenerate into 27 pages of opinionated semi-informed off-topic nonsense! :devil:

There are all sorts of debates as to what do and don't work and whether you will kill yourself if you put soft shocks onto a Sporting etc. Personally I'd suggest for your car you keep it "standard"...

Try Shop4Parts for all your bits, generally either original equipment or top quality equivalents, and discounts if you donate to the Fiat Forum:

rear shocks http://www.shop4parts.co.uk/?name=store&op=details&ProdId=5475&sku=13220

front shocks http://www.shop4parts.co.uk/?name=store&op=Details&ProdID=5474&sku=13219

top mounts http://www.shop4parts.co.uk/?name=s...8&secondary=41&opts=65&btnViewProducts=Search

drop links http://www.shop4parts.co.uk/?name=s...&secondary=123&opts=65&btnViewProducts=Search

Have fun

bluejohn125 said:

Good luck getting clear, helpful, sensible advice from this Forum! Most simple requests for advice on oil, spark plugs or shock-absorbers for the most basic of cars degenerate into 27 pages of opinionated semi-informed off-topic nonsense! :devil:

Click to expand...

Or put simply a debate - which is what forums a about surly?

Well in the end I've opted to just change front shocks with KONI's, change the dust covers (one has a split in it) and change the drop links.

I will let you know how the fitting goes what I think of these new shocks.

In the mean time, I need to sort some under-body rust out and retrofit some rear wheel arch linings from a newer panda as there there is quite bad rust around the fuel filler neck under the wheel arch!

Also planning on having valve clearances checked, but don't think I'll do that myself! How much should I be looking to pay for them to checked?

Cheers, Adam.