Treat to self!

Each year since I've owned my Freelander, I decide to give it a treat. It's a '55' plate 3 door, 88,800 miles on the clock. This year I'm thinking about replacing the springs and shock absorbers (I polybushed it throughout last year, some might remember!).
I've been through past posts but would prefer for anyone who has any ideas/views/thoughts regarding this project to post fresh. I don't do much green laining or off-roading in it, but will. and don't need to lift it (my wife struggles to get in as is!)
Many might suggest alternative spends, however, I'd like to keep this subject to the suspension side of the motor

Replacing the spings and shocks with standard replacements, i.e., same part numbers as now, will improve ride quality and handling over how it is now.

Nodge68 said:

Replacing the spings and shocks with standard replacements, i.e., same part numbers as now, will improve ride quality and handling over how it is now.

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Thanks' Nodge.

I replaced my st'd springs with some after market ones; Australian Dobinson's. They are heavier duty, possibly a bit firmer, but I haven't noticed any harshness in the ride, and they did add some height, maybe 10 to 15mm. When I go 'on rough roads / tracks aka green laning, I fit another set of wheels with mud tyres - these are nearly the same as factory original wranglers in height [195/80/15 = original - 205/75/15 maxis MT]. For mundane daily use I use 205/70/15 AT Bridgestnes. Lastly I am planning to fit a lift kit and am working towards making my own. It will be 30 or 40mm.

Colonial said:

Thanks' Nodge.

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While you are replacing the shocks. Take the opportunity to replace the front top mounts and all the plastic bushings. These wear and can cause various knocks and bangs.
It's also sensible to replace the dust covers and spring assistors (bump stops).

Replacing the suspension on my 20 year old 148k disco was a huge improvement and I only fitted standard spec items. Main thing I learnt was not to get hung up assuming you need HD items or anything special, well sorted oem is probably more than enough for most people, is for me at least!

AdamD1 said:

Replacing the suspension on my 20 year old 148k disco was a huge improvement and I only fitted standard spec items. Main thing I learnt was not to get hung up assuming you need HD items or anything special, well sorted oem is probably more than enough for most people, is for me at least!

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Indeed. There's a marked drop in standard shock performance after 25K miles of so. Also the springs loose some of there rate, after holding the car up for 10 years!!

I had the rear shocks replaced a couple of months ago with OEM parts. The difference is unreal. Still saving up to do the front, but there's alot more bits need doing under there!
Mike

Skinny Mike said:

I had the rear shocks replaced a couple of months ago with OEM parts. The difference is unreal. Still saving up to do the front, but there's alot more bits need doing under there!
Mike

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G'day Mike, we've missed you for a while

GrumpyGel said:

G'day Mike, we've missed you for a while

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Nice to be missed. Between work and taking the caravan out I've just not had the free time.
I've also spent alot of time messing with the Hippo. But I'll put a post up about that and not hijack this thread
Mike

htr said:

I replaced my st'd springs with some after market ones; Australian Dobinson's. They are heavier duty, possibly a bit firmer, but I haven't noticed any harshness in the ride, and they did add some height, maybe 10 to 15mm. When I go 'on rough roads / tracks aka green laning, I fit another set of wheels with mud tyres - these are nearly the same as factory original wranglers in height [195/80/15 = original - 205/75/15 maxis MT]. For mundane daily use I use 205/70/15 AT Bridgestnes. Lastly I am planning to fit a lift kit and am working towards making my own. It will be 30 or 40mm.

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htr.
Too complicated.

Nodge68 said:

While you are replacing the shocks. Take the opportunity to replace the front top mounts and all the plastic bushings. These wear and can cause various knocks and bangs.
It's also sensible to replace the dust covers and spring assistors (bump stops).

Click to expand...

Skinny Mike said:

I had the rear shocks replaced a couple of months ago with OEM parts. The difference is unreal. Still saving up to do the front, but there's a lot more bits need doing under there!
Mike

Click to expand...

AdamD1 said:

Replacing the suspension on my 20 year old 148k disco was a huge improvement and I only fitted standard spec items. Main thing I learnt was not to get hung up assuming you need HD items or anything special, well sorted oem is probably more than enough for most people, is for me at least!

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Thank you for your replies. But before I start on this project,
where's the best place to source the parts?
The above posts have highlighted -
OEM parts, then
Standard spec items,
also HD items as well.
The Australian Dobson's' (I just think I have to disregard (no offence htr, cost of shipping etc.)).
Which are best?
Thank you in anticipation.
Colonial.

OEM parts can be from Various brands, they're built to Land Rover specification. I believe mine are Delphi's, but don't quote me on that. If you go to a website such as rimmerbros they list the parts and state wether they are original, OEM, or aftermarket parts. Makes life easier, all you have to decide is the price your willing to pay.
Mike

Skinny Mike said:

OEM parts can be from Various brands, they're built to Land Rover specification. I believe mine are Delphi's, but don't quote me on that. If you go to a website such as rimmerbros they list the parts and state wether they are original, OEM, or aftermarket parts. Makes life easier, all you have to decide is the price your willing to pay.
Mike

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Cheers Skinny Mike.

Skinny Mike said:

OEM parts can be from Various brands, they're built to Land Rover specification. I believe mine are Delphi's, but don't quote me on that. If you go to a website such as rimmerbros they list the parts and state wether they are original, OEM, or aftermarket parts. Makes life easier, all you have to decide is the price your willing to pay.
Mike

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skinny Mike.
Above description help's me and a load of younger people understand.

Delphi was the OE supplier to LR.

I use these guys for LR parts. http://www.advancedfactors.co.uk/steering--suspension-62-c.asp

Skinny Mike said:

OEM parts can be from Various brands, they're built to Land Rover specification. I believe mine are Delphi's, but don't quote me on that. If you go to a website such as rimmerbros they list the parts and state wether they are original, OEM, or aftermarket parts. Makes life easier, all you have to decide is the price your willing to pay.
Mike

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Nodge68 said:

Delphi was the OE supplier to LR.

I use these guys for LR parts. http://www.advancedfactors.co.uk/steering--suspension-62-c.asp

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Delphi seems to be the way to go then.

Colonial said:

Delphi seems to be the way to go then.

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If you wipe the dirt off the label on your current shocks, you'll see the Delphi name on it.

Possibly not relevant but I went standard spec britpart for the disco. Very impressed so far, time will tell!

Nodge68 said:

If you wipe the dirt off the label on your current shocks, you'll see the Delphi name on it.

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Nodge.
I've sent off an e mail to Delphi, their site wanted my company name. As a private buyer I put in 'nil'. Are they trade only suppliers? (like Britpart). In which case, can I now expect a call from their local retailers?