Damper not working, what is it? Cost of repair?

Hope71 · Jun 28, 2016

Hi, I've got a 1970s caravan with a Sigma damper that isn't working well - there is a thud when the caravan is first pulled by the car. How do these work, is it some kind of hydraulic system? Or perhaps a spring? It looks like there is dirt in there because it feels scratchy when I pull it by hand. The damper is intact, so could I get it repaired or would it need replacing? Any idea of cost? Thanks.

I've added a link to the exact chassis below, a picture of the damper is on page 8 with the number 33.

http://www.thomson-caravans.co.uk/advice/maintenance/pdf/bbhandbookchassis72-83.pdf

Woodentop · Jun 28, 2016

It is almost identical to what you would call a shock absorber on a car. They are not repairable (without special equipment and tools) so the only option is to replace it. Such replacement is not difficult if you are handy around such items and have the necessary tools, but you may have considerable difficulty getting a replacement part.

chrisn7 · Jun 29, 2016

If you remove the damper, hopefully it will have some markings stamped on what is usually the upper half. Search on these -chances are its a standard car unit from the period.

Now there's a chassis - independent suspension (adjustable too!) or torsion bar suspension; cross chassis floor supports, dampers as standard. Where can I buy this ? Oh I forget, we've moved on to lesser quality, such is progress

GStockton · Jun 29, 2016

Takes me back many years this does. I had the same Problem with a Thompson caravan. I found that a direct replacement damper was to be found on a Classic Mini. the front one if I recall correctly. These are still available, as well from any classic Mine suppliers try the favourite auction site

Hope71 · Jun 30, 2016

Thanks for the replies. I phoned around probably half a dozen caravan repair companies today but have drawn a blank so far. 3 of them were fix at home outfits who said they couldn't source the part, another said they were too busy with the coming summer holidays, another said send me a photo of the hitch in an email and then didn't reply. The last one was actually a fitting/sales outfit for trailers they said they couldn't find the right damper but could probably adapt another one and would phone me back next week when the boss is back. Next week I'm going to have to drive the caravan around to some other caravan repair companies to see if I get a better response.

Any thoughts?

Thanks.

Mel · Jun 30, 2016

Did you try a classic mini supplier as GStockton suggested above.?
Mel

Hope71 · Jun 30, 2016

I found one on eBay for around £50, but I couldn't buy one in the hope it would fit or fit it myself even if it did. Are you suggesting I find a classic mini workshop and see if they would fit one on the caravan?

martindf3 · Jul 3, 2016

Don't know if you are fixed up yet . But if you can take it off yourself and then all you have to do is measure its length extended and then push it in and measure compressed length . And then the shouldered bolt diameter and search on line , most racing car supplies can supply budget dampers . Like Demon Tweaks , where are you I know a few people in Stockport knutsford area who would help you out .

chrisn7 · Jul 5, 2016

As I said, you need to get the thing off. Parts from that time usually had part numbers / makers name etc stamped into the metal upper, no sticky labels then. Then you can research a replacement, which probably won't be from a caravan parts supplier, but automotive as mentioned

20170602yuanyuan · Jun 2, 2017

Search

Damper not working, what is it? Cost of repair?

Hope71

Woodentop

chrisn7

GStockton

Hope71

Mel

Moderator

Hope71

martindf3

chrisn7

20170602yuanyuan

TRENDING THREADS

Latest posts