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[I_want_an_Omega]

Hi,

I'm nervous about asking a very very broad question as a newbie - about where to start in getting my "new" car fettled up suspension wise.

Firstly, the car is a '98 2.5 auto CD Estate with 96k. It has been somewhat neglected for the last few years - having the bare minimum done to ensure an MOT pass.

The first thing I had done (after a good service, cam cover gaskets & breathers) was to have the front disks/pads and both front wishbones done using Vx parts. Then put into MOT which she passed!

In terms of what next, I'll probably do the front shocks as they aren't great, but my attention is drawn to the rear suspension. I had a number of V6 Omega's some years ago, including a '96 from new, a '99 from 12k and a '98 from 50k - I have to say that they ALL seemed to suffer from "clunkly/creaky/grumbling" rear suspension which was especially noticable at slow speeds. I'm convinced, given my experience in the past, that some of this must be down to the design of the suspension for so many cars (which were from new upto 5 years old) all to have some symptoms.

So, where should I start? This is a car that I want to keep for a few years - but on the other hand I don't want to replace everything. However, if @ almost 100k the consensus is that parts x,y or z should be changed then I'm happy to do so - as I really would like to get quiet rear suspension.

I'd also welcome comments about the longevity of springs and the merits of (perhaps) fitting MV6 suspension as, so far, I think I have a blank canvas in front of me.

Phew -

Thanks in anticipation.

Rob

[Turk]

Check out Lesjofors 
http://www.lesjoforsab.com/car-springs/automotivevehicle-springs.asp?INCMP=automotive
I've had a pair of up-rated rear springs fitted for over a year and they are still nice and firm.
A lowered Mig handles really well and looks great, but lowering can have issues with ground clearance (eg  steep driveways, the larger speed humps, etc).
I lowered my previous Mig by 40mm. http://i696.photobucket.com/albums/vv327/Turkpix/Fujipix036-1.jpg
30mm are also readily available and will give you that little extra.
Uprated, standard height front springs are non-existant, so I'm having a pair madehttp://www.dfaulknersprings.co.uk/ , hopefully in the next month or so.
To develop and manufacture the initial pair is gonna cost me around £110. They should be cheaper when they have the specifications from mine.
I'm trying to keep my current Mig at a standard height, but definately need the front to be firmer.

[Neil_MV6]

A trip to WIM http://www.wheels-inmotion.co.uk/ would be a good starting point to get your geometry set up.  Whilst there tony would identify any other issues regarding suspension setup/upgrades etc

He has a great pedigree, is a good friend to the site and is obviously very familiar with our Migsies! 

[Kumamoto]

A trip to WIM http://www.wheels-inmotion.co.uk/ would be a good starting point to get your geometry set up.  Whilst there tony would identify any other issues regarding suspension setup/upgrades etc

He has a great pedigree, is a good friend to the site and is obviously very familiar with our Migsies! 

Could not agree more with this post. Took  my miggy  to WIM and tony set it up brillantly and my car ride has improved incredibly. So smooth and effortless!! I would recommend WIM!

[I_want_an_Omega]

Ok, heres the latest .........

Car booked in with WIM for next week and they will fit the front shocks which I'll be supplying as my local Vx dealer has let me have Trade Club prices through my Autohanstormers membership. (£104 inc vat for the pair)

Discussed the rears with WIM and their view was to check for anything obvious (like a damged spring) and then leave it to them. So, thats what I did. My local Vx Masterfit dealer then kindly had a poke about underneath and discovered that the car had one original rear spring and one aftermarket one of unknown make. The car was sitting well over an inch lower on the side with the "new" spring!

The dealer gave me a price of £348 all in for the rear springs - but the really bad news is that Vx themselves have no stock and there is delay or 3 to 4 weeks. 

So, the resolution is that WIM will now source, supply and fit new rear springs when they do the front shocks and alignment next week.

The real irony is that they are only about 3 miles from where I used to live a year ago before comng to Lincoln.

Ain't fife strange eh! 

I'll keep you posted.

Rgds ......... Rob

[MutantCav]

Must admit the car did sound a bit creaky coming out of your garage mate...not had that with any of mine so cant comment on if they go there a lot...its a nice looking car though so probably worth getting it sorted

[I_want_an_Omega]

Thanks Chris .............