G'day,

I just noticed that the front of my 2001 XKR seems to be sagging a bit. Is it supposed to be sitting level?

Am I correct in assuming that the upper shock mounts need to be replaced?


Cheers,

Stu

 

Stu - 2 ways to check for certain if there is sag - measure distance between wheel center cap and bottom of fender - should be about 15.5 inches.


Second is to pop the bonnet and look at where the shock protrudes through the upper shock mount for reddish/brown flakes/debris as this is a sure sign the upper mounts have gone south. You may also see the shock shifted from center as once the foam pancakes, the shock may move within the mount

 

FYI: When the upper shock mounts totally turn to dust it transmits noise from the shock towers through the braces into your dash and sounds like a rat is being tortured behind your dash - the continuous squealing!

 

+1 on checking the upper mounts. It's the usual culprit.

Center of hub to bottom lip on fender should be 15.75". At 15.25" or 15" it is likely the shock mount going bad. It can account for up to 3/4" of height.

Less than 15" and you might start thinking coils springs as well.

Check the various bushings while you're at it, although they have less effect on ride height. Some forum members report the bottom shock bushing as being a contributor to lower front ends.

 

Thank you all for the quick replies. Center of hub to bottom lip of fender measures 15.0" and upon examination there is reddish brown dust and cracking of the foam at the top of the mount.

I've ordered a new pair of mounts and that will be my next project upon their arrival.

Thanks again,

Stu

 

Stu - how many miles on her?? As Mike mentioned - while your taking shocks out to replace upper mounts - perfect time to replace bushings, ball joints and shocks if needed.

 

60,000 miles

 

I would agree on replacing shocks and springs and lower shock mounts while you are in there, maybe even the upper control arm mounts. If you are keeping the car and you get to the 80k range you will be doing them then.

 

Keep in mind your car is a XKR, you will have stiffer springs and adaptive shocks, both which can be pricey you will want to start looking for sources.
Bushings and ball joints are all identical to xk8.