All the 105/115 cars call for the same shocks, at least from the aftermarket. So I'm not sure what's wrong except that the shocks aren't long enough.
Andrew

 

Hi Charlie,
Andrew's right. Also, the taller spindles won't affect the shock length. It just changes the roll center and improves handling.

As to height, are the spacers still in the spring pearch? You can try removing them before cutting the springs.

 

I have found some cheapie aftermarket shocks (for VW, Ford) didn't really fit very well. I wouldn't expect that from KYB though.
Andrew

 

Thanks guys. I posted this question in the "Suspension,etc" forum as well. Centerline is measuring for me the extended length of the KYB's vs the Koni Red's to see if that is the solution. I'm sorry now I threw away the old front shocks during the initial tear down. I presently measure 17" between the center of the lower stud and the Super's upper perch. Centerline indicates this is only 1/2" more than a newer Spider they measured in their shop. That makes sense as the taller uprights would add approximately that extra length. I think a longer shock is the only way to go... I don't want to use the shock as a travel limiter.

Charlie

 

Charlie,
The longer spindle doesn't shift the lower A arm down, it moves the upper arm up. The lower arm position is dictated by spring length. I have the newer style (and longer) spindles on my Super and had no problems installing my shocks.

 

Mike,
I agree ...when the springs are loaded thru the tires. But when up on jackstands, the suspension rests on the upper control arm (and the top rubber bumper); the longer upright now pushes the lower A-arm abit lower. I could (with external) force compress or raise the spring closer to ride height and install the shock.... if that is what is done. But again, I do not like the idea of using the shock as a limiter. As your's work ...are you using Koni red's or other?

Thanks for you help.

Charlie

 

I'd think if you use your shock as a droop limiter you won't have a limiter, or a shock, for long.

Maybe it's missing the stock droop limiter pad that the upper A-arm rest on at droop, and so the A-arm is falling too far, allowing more suspension travel than allowed? That might explain running out of shock length. Is the pad missing? Have you tried a stock shock or Koni to see if it's long enough?

Andrew

 

Andrew,

The "rubber bumper" I mentioned ... is your "droop limiter".... which I'm sure is a better term... and yes it is in place and looks correct. Unfortunately, I do not have any other shocks with which to compare. Centerline is measuring, but has not gotten back to me as yet.

Charlie

 

Hi Charlie,
Yes I'm using red Konis- and you are right about not wanting to use the shock as a suspension stop.

Andrew has a good point regarding the rubber bumper. Yours may be degraded or too flat. That might let the upper arm drop too far.

 

I think the mystery is solved! Centerline called back and indicates the KYB fronts are 1" shorter than the Koni Reds at full extension. Rear's measured the same length. I'm returning the KYB's , F & R, and will use the Koni's instead all around.

Charlie