Very bouncy front suspension

[ICBongo]

Hi,

Our bongo has always been like this and we thought it was normal, but since we have spoken to other owners we are thinking perhaps it's not.

When you are driving along and hit a bump in the road the front suspension bounces you around like a jack in a box. We just thought that was normal but it is quite pronounced - there's no finesse about it at all. So I'm wondering if anyone can give me some advice please, do you think I'm looking at new front shocks - or is there a damper system that might need looking at? If I'm into new parts where do you think is the best place to buy from and is it a DIY type of job?

All help and advice is appreciated. Thanks in advance.

Ian

[helen&tony]

Hi
You'll need spring compressors for the front dampers, otherwise it's all nuts and bolts...Don't forget, that apart from the front dampers, you'll need new rubber gaiters, as the old ones will likely be on their way out, plus new rubber seats for the springs!
Cheers
Helen

[ICBongo]

Hi Helen,

Thanks for the reply. So, am I right to think then that this isn't going to be a DIY job? I've been trying to look online for the parts and I don't really know what to look for, can you direct me to a site so I can gauge the cost please? Or do you think should just get it into the garage and let them work it out?

Thanks

Ian

[wonkanoby]

put new secondhand struts on mine

got them from the breaker george on here

amazing difference to the drive

cost me 40 quid and the same again for a mate to fit them at mates rates

[helen&tony]

Hi
I'll send you a PM re the parts, or as stated, George sells some good stuff...BUT...remember, dampers are only really any good for about 60,000 miles. Konis quote 100,000 for theirs (well, they used to), but they are rather pricey, and don't do Bongos, but most Bongos will have got to the replacement stage, and I replaced mine as a matter of course...in fact, I replaced nearly 100% of the suspension and steering, and added a few extras like air-assist. In terms of value, it might seem a lot of cash, but you know you have no problems for years to come, and the Bongo's extraordinarily useful!
Cheers
Helen

[rita]

As Helen has said, unless you know the history of second hand parts they can be false economy as well as being dangerous in some cases. Breaker will tell you that they are "fully tested" but You have to Pay the repeated labour cost if the prove to be faulty.

New struts/shockers are available for about £60...£70 including delivery.

[Simon Jones]

Definitely don't bother getting second hand shock absorbers as you could end up with something that's nearly 20 years old. I recently bought a brand new rear pair from this supplier who is doing a new pair for the front for £125 including a free set of filters. Highly recommended.

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/MAZDA-BONGO-1 ... 1c4a83e94c