Suspension bits

[daved]

I think I have a leaking driver's side rear hydrogas cone as described by Dieter here http://www.mgfcar.de/hydragas/blownhydra.html

Are the cones on the Trophy the same as on a standard F?

Cheers

Dave

[Dark Knight]

not sure but read

http://www.mgf.ultimatemg.com/group2/suspension/lowering.htm

[daved]

Thanks Paul. I've seen that before and think the damage to the cone (or sphere) was caused by excessive low ride heights before I got the car. The gap between the tyres and the wheel arch was just big enough to stop the tyres rubbing on the bodywork

It isn't clear to me if the spheres are different between the F and the trophy. I think it is clear that the cone settings are indeed different.

I don't want to lower it but get the suspension to operate properly as it is causing the geometry of the rear wheel to be slightly out. It doesn't appear to be affecting the handling too much but I would like it corrected.

[Dark Knight]

No prob Dave!

i thought t was only the knuckles that were different!

[Rich]

The suspension components are identical, with the exception of a minor change on the standard knuckles (which can be seen in the second link above). However, they are run on a lower ride height by adjusting the amount of gas, but remains within the acceptable tolerances to prevent them 'bottoming out'.

Is it definitely the cones? When I bought my 'F, it was rather lopsided. It turned out that it was the valve on the driver's side that was leaking and was a very simple fix. They can be found in the front of the car just above the subframe. If I remember correctly, you need to remove the big plastic cover to see them.

With laftermarket owering knuckles fitted, the car will ride even lower and the ride is quite a bit harder. I thought of putting them on mine but after a ride in one that had been done, I decided to stick with the Trophy set-up as it offered good handling whilst maintaining a reasonable comfort level.

Rich

[daved]

Cheers Rich. I'm just at the investigation stage. A trip to Clifton Lane is called for but I wanted background before I went. There are two different part numbers listed by Deiter for these cones (spheres) here http://www.mgfcar.de/epc/480.htm

Are you absolutely sure they are identical spheres for the F and the Trophy?

[Rich]

I have to say that this has thrown a slight shadow of doubt, but I had been told in the past they were. There doesn't seem to be any difference in them, and I would have thought that if the knuckles from your car were used on a standard 'F spheres, they would enable an identical set-up. But check with CL before you commit to anything and post your findings here as I reckon this is valuable info for our members.

Is it just the one unit that appears to have gone or is the car leaning to one side? Just asking, bearing in mind the front is linked to the back on each side - part of the handling design.

Rich

[daved]

It appears that it is the the one unit. The rear driver's side is down a couple of centimeters from the passenger side but the front wheels are both at the correct settings!

This makes me think that it isn't the valves but the sphere.

[Rich]

Yep, I would agree with that info. I hope it's not going to cost you too much. Not sure how serviceable the units are.

Rich

[daved]

Rimmer Bros £179

[Rich]

Eeek! Perhaps there's a simple seal that can be replaced... (he says with a truly optimistic tone in his voice)

Rich

[Dark Knight]

hope its not too expensive Dave! let us know what happens

Paul

[Guest]

Dave, I've got spares. Thay are currently attached to a rear subframe, but should be ok. However, I don't know if they are different on the Trophy. If not, then you are welcome to have one for a few beer vouchers.

[Rich]

I'd take up Stewart's offer. The mountings are definitely the same and you could use the knuckles off your existing ones. You would have to use the pair though to avoid being out of balance...

Rich

[daved]

Dave, I've got spares. Thay are currently attached to a rear subframe, but should be ok. However, I don't know if they are different on the Trophy. If not, then you are welcome to have one for a few beer vouchers.

STU....You are an absolute wonder. Will you bring them on Sunday please?

[Guest]

They are at my mums house, so I need to get over there and with some tools to remove them from the subframe. I'll do my very best to, but I do have quite a busy time. Otherwise, I can probably do a trip and meet you in the week next week. If you need them really urgently though, then let me know and I'll see if I can work something else out.

[daved]

Cheers mate but not really urgent as I am away Monday/Tuesday so later in the week will be good.

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