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MG MGF Technical - Hydragas suspension height

Hi

I recently had my suspension pumped up on my 1996 MGF 1.8i. Car is sitting very high at the front and handling is very ropey. Is it possible to open the valve and let some of fluid out so that the height will lower ? The back wheels are just a little hight but the front is way to high. Can this be adjusted myself ?

Thanks
David Law

Yes you can - just be careful to let small amounts of fluid out at a time...

Instructions here: http://mgf.ultimatemg.com/group2/DIY/suspension/howto_lower.htm#without
Rob Bell

Before you start letting fluid out check the ride height measurements. It's very common to think that the car is high after a pump up just because you are used to seeing it lower. On level ground, from the centre of the front wheel to the underside of the front arch should be 368mm (no lowering knuckles fitted) when the temp is 17°C. It will be slightly lower in this weather. Also, once you have had the ride height set you should get the wheel alignment done. This might be what's causing the poor handling.
David Clelland

Also, the hydragas is under pressure and it shoots out so be ready with some cloths and keep your face out of the way (or wear goggles).
Robert Matthews 1

Errr I think you just have to drive it around for awhile to get the car back to equilibrium. I had the same problem but after a week the car adjusted well
Muhammad Radzuan

Just a wee word of caution. A pal of mine was declared to be 'uninsured' after a prang when the assessor found his tyre pressures to be incorrect. I wonder if the same might apply to incorrect suspension pressure / ride height. They could be considered to be deviations from the manufacturer's standard specification and should, therefore, be notified to your insurer.
Adam Devil's Advocate Price
A. H. Price

Few understand hydragas suspension. If there is an obvious 'problem' with the suspension, then they could flag this up as a problem - for example, if the suspension were found to be on its bump-stops (below 340mm). Thing is, you'd not want your suspension to be this low, as the spring rates get too soft, and the ride harshens significantly to the point that it gets unpleasant... more than 350mm is usually fine. Better if you go for lowering knuckles - and alert your insurance company to the change (although again, I would be surprised if an insurance assessor would find these abnormal!
Rob Bell

This thread was discussed between 13/12/2007 and 17/12/2007

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