C5 rear suspension

[PC2CV]

My C5 failed its mot today on a leaky rear suspension unit



I see seals listed on servicebox, is there much involved in rebuilding one of these suspension cylinders?

[white exec]

Check first the small leak-off (return) pipes and their 'rubber' couplings. These can split, and allow leakage, rather than returning it to the reservoir.

[lexi]

There isn't that much involved in rebuilding the cylinder. Getting the pin out can be the worst of it. I make sure all those gaitors are cleaned up and dry before MOT. To add to the return pipes, quite often the spillage can be jacking car up without putting on high or a burst gaitor.

[darbuck]

are you sure its not just a split boot or the rubber section of the pipe split slightly mine was just the boot and its not a major job but as always going anywhere near the underbelly requires jack stands. If memory serves I replaced my seals but be careful removing the rod the ball on the head can be very brittle a section of mine snapped off requiring a new shaft and it seems to be an issue with them because the stealership I got a replacement from reckoned it was a regular occurrence. you will definitely require a new pin for the boot and a lot of patience to get it out because it rots into the hole and the boot will be brittle as well. I had to do mine when I was doing the rear arm bearings so I'm traumatized from trying to get the seized calipers off but you wont need to so its definitely do-able. hope it helps.

Darren

[Peter.N.]

I concur with Chris, check the leak off pipes first, they are not very easy to get at but see if that's where the fluid is coming from.

Peter

[myglaren]

Mine had a similar weep but it was a small tear in the gaiter.
Easy and cheap fix.

[white exec]

Had this too. Cleaned up with solvent, then superglued the small split.

[PC2CV]

Got the boot swapped out, the socket on the end of the pushrod did take some persuading to come out but no need to open the hydraulic circuit which was handy.

[Peter.N.]

Well done.

Peter

[white exec]

Good job done there - and some first-rate photos!
Next job could be a bit of wax protection under there. Best time of year to do it.

[PC2CV]

Good job done there - and some first-rate photos!
Next job could be a bit of wax protection under there. Best time of year to do it.

Already hit the pipes with rust converter on the flaky bits (the white on the pipes), ill give them a go over with Hammerite hopefully today.

[white exec]

Waxing is quite good enough for pipework, which usually only suffers minor surface rusting.. Water can get trapped under additional paint, particularly if it's a thick coat.