[modern] Shocks: Convert or not to Convert--that is the Question

Disused Categories Modern
1

Dear (still Modern) List:

As we all know, the early XJ40s with hydraulic shocks are troublesome, to
say the least. Mine are so far gone that the car is bouncing around on
springs. I now (at last) have the funds to do something about it.

I rode in a friend’s XJ40 where he had done the conversion to standard
shocks. I felt a difference–to me (am I imagining this??) the ride was not
as good as the hydraulic setup–a bit harsher.

Some questions:

  1. For those that have converted, am I just flat out wrong about this? Your
    feedback please!

  2. What is a good source/price for a conversion kit? Does it come with
    instructions? I think I’ll do it myself.

  3. If so, what is the better brand shock to use? (Koni, Boge, or??). I am
    looking for the smoothest ride possible (not handling)

  4. Are the factory (or alternative) hydraulic shocks (still) available? How
    difficult are they to replace? Cost comparison to the conversion
    alternative?

Lots of big questions. Thanks in Advance for Help,

Wayne Estrada
Still Homeless Somewhere in the USA
1989 Vanden Plas (Alpine Green)
1989 XJ-S Convertible (Dorchester Grey)_________________________________________________________________
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2

John Wrote:

I have done a conversion on my '88, and right now I have a relatively new replacement SLS set up on my '90. To me, the SLS ride in the '90 is softer, but I personally like the standard shocks (Boge) on the '88. I like the handling much better - it seems it can take corners w/o having the back end "float" out behind me. I think it's a noticable dfference. I need to keep in mind what vehicle I'm driving, because the performance is a little different when maneuvering. I wouldn't describe the conversion replacement on the '88 as "harsh" at all - "Tight" is a better word to me.

Thanks John. Lots of good info. I am leaning towards a conversion with
softer (Boge?) shocks and the higher springs. You said it was 3 on a scale
of 5 for difficulty. Man, I thought this thread would bring people out of
the woodwork. Any other thoughts from John and the two listers who emailed
me off line?

Also, anybody noticed a big improvement by replacing original suspension
(rubber) bushings?

Thanks,

Wayne Estrada
Still Homeless Somewhere in the USA
1989 Vanden Plas (Alpine Green)
1989 XJ-S Convertible (Dorchester Grey_________________________________________________________________
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