Rusty Spokes

Replacing the front shocks and shock mounts on my Cabriolet. All original at 100k miles. I don't have big bench or a uber large vice to lock the strut down and wrestle the top shock retainer off. I do have an air compressor and 1/2" impact wrench. Not wanting to spend $100+ for a 40-201B tool to remove the shock retainer, I found a solution.

I do have a set of plumber sockets..the cost about $12. And I do have a 1 1/8 socket..



The socket 31/32 (ID) was a perfect fit inside the shock retainer. I slipped a 1 1/8 deep socket on the other end. Zapped it with the air impact and the retainer came right off. easy.


New Sachs Advantage shocks, New Sachs shock kit with a new cover and bumper and a pair of New 034 Street Density shock mounts.


Very pleased..and should be. The old Boge gas shocks had no return pressure and the old shock mounts were completely collapsed.

grillage

Were the rears hard to source? I'd always heard they are unique to the cabriolet.

I've considered going to KW coilovers

grillage

Duh - you said you only did the fronts. Have you tried to find the rears?

Rusty Spokes

FCPEuro has the rear shocks. Audi Shock Absorber Rear (Cabriolet) - Bilstein 19-028873 for $92 each or Audi Shock Absorber Rear (Cabriolet) - Sachs 556-332 for $163 each.

I am not too concerned about my rear shocks. I inspected them and they seem fine. Really not much load on the rear end..Now that is a very different story with the front shocks and that big lump 2.8 engine with all the accessories, the heaviest load Audi could have used on the Cabriolet front end. . The front shock mounts and shocks take a real beating up there. The Sachs Advantage Gas Shocks were only $86 each from FCP. The 034 Street Density shock mounts were $25 each and the Sachs strut covers and bumpers SACHS - 900 002 were off the Bay from Germany $34 free shipping.