Old caravan Shock absorbers

[Terry_5041693]

I have a 1980 CI Fairholme Fulmar. I would like to keep it a bit longer but it needs new shock absorbers, I have searched the net and the local area but have been unable to source anything suitable. Does anyone know of a UK company that could supply these.

 

[Ogre]

I reckon that any half decent garage could adapt a pair of 'newer' shocks to fit your unit Terry.

What I would do is find a pair of shocks that were the correct length, and then go along to a garage that does welding, and get them to make you some new brackets to fit the shocks. Really shouldn't be that difficult. You probably won't find the original shocks, but with a bit of lateral thinking, I bet you could get round this.

 

[RogerL_5041474]

Caravan dealers which used to sell Sprites may still have some old stocks. Try Canwell Caravans (now Swift / Avondale) in the West Midlands.

 

[GStockton]

I agree with the others.What type fixings are you looking for? pin tops or ring fixings I think remove your existing units and take them to a motor factor for them to match up Maybe mk 1 Mini fronts or mk1 or 2 Escort rears will do the job. or try Indespension Trailer people G S

 

[mike_5041102]

I see Al-ko supply shock absorbers in three sizes depending on the weight of the caravan. Select the Al-ko shock absorber suitable for your caravan weight to get the correct characteristics for you van. Then as previuously advised have a garage weld up some brackets.

 

[Terry_5041693]

Thanks for your replies Mike, GS, Roger and Keith.

The main problem is that the shocks do not resemble any vehicle ones I have seen. They have a 3.5" dia. coil spring cup support approx. 3" from the base and the mountings are pin at the top and eye at the bottom. I am concerned that having a support cup welded on to a hydraulic `Mini` or `Ford` shock may cause internal damage due to the heat generated. Thanks, Terry

 

[GStockton]

Ahh right Maybe your best place would be a competition car shop Demon Tweeks etc or Roadrunner try a google search for these.All so Koni load adjusters were just like you describe Let us know how you get on again Was the caravan on a Peak Chassis then? G S

 

[gary]

The stock I looked at only contained one shock absorber with the spring and we think this is the lightest weight one at 320kg's.

I did purchase a quantity of brand new windows and skylights for CI vans of the 80's which maybe of use to you.

 

[Terry_5041693]

Thanks to all that have replied to my previous post about these shock absorbers. I have managed to find shocks of a similar pattern from Triumph Herald/Spitfire cars and at the moment I am waiting for the vital dimemsions to be sent to me from the supplier. Fingers crossed they will be suitable.