Early L-Series Adjustable Rear Suspension

Several club members have experienced failure of the rear suspension coil-over-shocker unit. The problem, is confined to the 1985-1986 model with adjustable ride height.

Indeed the problem lies in the height adjuster itself. On these units height is adjusted by rotating the lower spring seat across 3 'stepped' notches. These notches are integral to the lower seat and are relatively light-weight in construction. In heavy load situations, especially with the rear suspension set on its highest setting, the notches 'peel' away (or flair out if you prefer) from the unit and the rear suspension collapses. The unit cannot be repaired.

The solution appears to be to install a muffler clamp or similar around the lower spring seat. It's fairly straight forward to install. The clamp provides additional support to the height adjuster notches on the seat and stops them from flairing out.

David Martin SC180

Disclaimer: Technical information given or disclosed in this website is given with the best intent and is advisory only. No responsibility is taken by the the Subaru 4WDrive Club of Queensland or its members for any damage or injury caused by any vehicle modifications made, or by the use of any products or the adoption of any procedures mentioned in this website.