My 2014 has just passed its 8th consecutive MoT with no advisories, it’s only done 51k. I’m always a bit surprised that nothing seems to be wearing out yet. 64 plate TD4 SE Santorini Black
2021 Mazda MX5 GT Sport Tech

balticblueLR2 wrote:

I'm interested in the Bilsteins as well jules, so I'm looking forward to hearing about your experiences.

It went pretty smoothly. Lots of Utube videos showing different methods but this was the closest to my way:
https://tinyurl.com/3p35kj95

I didnt dismantle any suspension arms.
I disconnected the ARB links (green).
I cleared the area of cables and hoses - pulling out the ABS sensor, removing the two support brackets (red) - they were very rusty and so I de-rusted and repainted them. I disconnected the EPB cable (yellow).



I didnt use any special tool or chisel to spread the knuckle - just used a bolt in from the other side from the pinch bolt and a piece of scrap metal in the gap to push against and widen the gap - very easy after cleaning the threads.









I loosened the top mount nuts just a little to give a bit more strut movement after marking their position. I use some spring compressors to shorten the spring a bit and then supported the strut with a metal tube on a jack acting on the ARB bracket link (green). You can then tap the knuckle all the way off the strut.


The Bilsteins B4 shocks seem absolutely fine (as Id expect) - very good value too. Jules

NeilTD4 wrote:

Good stuff, especially with the testers comment

What year is yours?

I was wondering when did it become a thing about people saying advisory free mot ? Always used to be just glad it passed with out to much cost. On YouTube channels they always go on about advisory free mot etc. just wondered.

cool the wife's Freelander 2 passed its mot today  2009 FL2 S now gone
2011 FL2 HSE AUTO
2012 FL2 XS AUTO
2000 Kawasaki er 5

 Jules