Shock Absorbers...Time for a change?

[TeamSid]

My van's now covered 198000miles and I'm wondering if it's in need for a new set of shock absorbers. It seems to be quite light on the front and waves about a bit, not helped by the nasty hightop of course. I've removed them and found that there's quite a bit of resistance when extending them but they compress really easily. Not being up on shock absorbers, I'm not sure if they are OK or not. What do you think? Many thanks.

[meridian911]

Just about to do mine for the reason, they've definitely had it tho, I can feel some nice gas bilsteins coming my way

[TeamSid]

I can feel some cheapos coming my way. False economy maybe.

[Red Westie]

If they are the originals and covered that mileage, then it's a pretty good bet they will be weak when compared to a new pair.
Don't go cheap as in JK's or those cheap Brasillian jobbers KYB? Bilsteins B4's would be a good replacement or if you want to save a few quid try SACHS.

Martin

[TeamSid]

I've just ordered a pair of front Sachs from Brickwerks along with a steering rack bush kit. I'm not sure if it needs new bushes but at nearly 200,000 miles on the clock it won't do any harm changing them. I'll change the rear Shocks once I replenish the van fund!

[Red Westie]

You get a thumbs up from me but with money being as tight as it is I would be prioritising your list and instead of changing things because they are original and possibly past their best look at things that definately need doing:

Service first to determine what those priorities might be:
Things like:
Brake discs/pads/caliper/wheel bearings
Metal brake pipes
Flexi brake pipes
Hose pipes
Fuel tank and breathers
Front top wishbone rubbers
Cam belt
Drive belts

etc etc

Martin

[TeamSid]

Your right Martin. Fortunately the van's first owner was our local ITV channel 'Border Telly' so most of the van has been repaired or replaced at some point, with only a few things left to do.