Brake, shock and bush overhaul

[joe75]

As part of my winter project I am about to refresh the suspension and brakes on my 87’ LHD Syncro.

At the moment its all a bit old and feels like a bone shaker. All I would like to do is make it ride and stop a little better, nothing extreme!

I am looking for some advice of people who have done this before as I need the van to be off the road for no more than a weekend (if possible). My plan is to replace all the bushes; will the standard flexi bush set work for syncros? Any tips or advice on fitting new bushes, is it a DIY job?

For the shox’s what is best to use, standard vw units? I don't intend to do any crazy off roading but its would nice to soak up the bumps a little better.

As for the brakes I plan to put new discs and drums, plus pads and shoes with a new spring set on the back.

Am I going about this in the right way?
Thoughts and ideas please …
Thanks in advance.

[toomanytoys]

Yep, new discs drums and quality pads/shoes will make a difference.. if the calipwrs are a bit grotty and sticky pistons, would be worth getting some refurbed ones...

Bushes.. std VW ones work and last well.. but Brickwerks does a set of certain ones from powerflex.. worth fitting the steering rack bushes too as this reall sharpens up the steering..

Shocks.. Yes std sachs/boge ones will be a big improvement over old tired ones..

Brickwerks does most/all of the bits you'll need best quality and prices are good too..

[syncropaddy]

Wot 'e said plus you might want to fit new wheel cylinders to the rear as the dont cost a whole lot. While you are doing all of that you should replace all your brake fluid.

[joe75]

Cheers guys....I have ordered a fair bit from brickwerks and been happy with the stuff and I know its going to be good quality, unlike some companies. Will add wheel cylinders and brakes hoses as well....

How hard are the bushes to change

[syncropaddy]

If you buy the poly bushes, they are simple to fit but getting the old ones out isnt the easiest of jobs. The OEM ones are harder to fit as some need special tools

[Simon Baxter]

http://www.powerflex.co.uk" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
Factory burnt down.
I have taken all my stock off the webshop as I have no idea when they will be up and running again.

[SyncroSwede]

I replaced the bushes and ball joints on the front of my 16" Syncro this summer with Powerflex parts from Brickwerks and as said, fitting is easy it's getting the old stuff out. Some of it was done with the lump hammer but some required the use of my friendly local garage's press. While I was in there I regreased the front CVs and fitted new boots. Much easier with the bearing upright off!

If you had the time and facilities I would strip first and see what else needed replacing to save on cost as your calipers for instance may just need new seals etc but if it has to be one weekend then change as much as you can afford. The steering rack Poweflex bushes were a doddle to fit and made a huge difference and again, easier to do with the track rod ends undone. Enjoy!

[joe75]

Not great news about that fire.... Not sure whether to the job on hold or just use normal bushes

I have a local friendly garage that has a press

I have already changed the steering rack bushes when I upgraded to power steering. As u said the new bushes made a huge difference, one of the reasons i decided to do the other bushes.

thanks for the info

[syncropaddy]

If you decide to change your brake hoses then can I recommend Mr Baxters braided stainless hoses. I believe them to be a positive step in the right direction.

[Simon Baxter]

Not great news about that fire.... Not sure whether to the job on hold or just use normal bushes

I have a local friendly garage that has a press

I have already changed the steering rack bushes when I upgraded to power steering. As u said the new bushes made a huge difference, one of the reasons i decided to do the other bushes.

thanks for the info

If you want a set, mail me, it's the rack bushes I'm short of, I can probably muster the rest of the kit if needed, do it sooner rather than later though.

[joe75]

Great.... You will have mail ASAP

Thanks