Changing rear shock absorbers

[nekcerb]

I seem to recollect reading that a special, or short set of spring compressors are needed to compress the spring to enable the rear spring/shock
strut to be removed. Just wondered if correct, what size the compressors need to be, or are any set within reason suitable. Just to add my car is fitted with the R performance uprated suspension, so I believe have harder shorter springs? Not sure if this makes any difference. Any experience, or tips would be appreciated.

[mike020150]

Assuming you have an X100 XK8, space to operate spring compressors is limited and the springs are very powerful so the Jaguar special tool (number 204-179) is the best option. Mike.

[Astromorg]

It is also possible to remove the spring and shock absorber as one unit and then dis-assemble it on the bench. This does require the A frame to be removed to allow the lower wishbone to pivot downwards enough to give the required clearance.

[nekcerb]

Many thanks for the replies will take a look at both methods. Rear suspension seems fine, can't see any play, or loose movement of bushes except for a rattling/rumbling/banging noise over the slightest road bumps, so assuming similar to reports of rattling noises that develop in the cats-type shock absorbers. Also, seems more pronounced on the passenger rear shock, so just wondered if they failed in pairs, though more uneven road surface on kerbside might account for this. Any comments/ideas would be appreciated.

[mike020150]

All shocks fail in time but there's no automatic pattern of them failing in pairs. However, with any individual failed damper that has completed more than 15/20K miles, it's wise to replace the pair or there will be a risk of mismatched performance. Mike.