Date:         Tue, 11 Apr 2006 17:21:07 -0700
Reply-To:     Andrew Martin <campahvan@EARTHLINK.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Andrew Martin <campahvan@EARTHLINK.NET>
Subject:      FS - H&R Lowering springs and Koni shocks
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="US-ASCII"

I recently purchased an 85 Transporter that had H&R lowering springs and
adjustable red Koni shocks.  While the low rider look and feel may appeal to
some folks, I plan to use my truck as a truck and I want the stock ground
clearance and spring travel back so I can haul heavy stuff and drive off
pavement.



I had originally planned to simply replace just the springs but upon removal
of the H&R's and installation the new Boge springs, I have discovered that
the rear Koni shocks that came on my Transporter were built for use only on
a vehicle with the H&R lowering springs.  Fully extended, they are about
2-1/4" shorter than a rear KYB shock for the Vanagon and will not have
enough "up" travel if used on a non-lowered Vanagon.  The front Koni shocks
seem to fit just fine and have plenty of "up" travel with the taller
springs.  I don't have any spare Vanagon front shocks lying around to
compare them lengthwise but I have decided to sell the 4 H&R springs and 4
Koni shocks as a complete set.  I have read some opinions that using the
adjustable Koni shocks is important to maintain a comfortable ride when
using lowering springs.  YRMV.  These "red" Koni shocks are called "special"
on the Koni web site and are adjustable for stiffness but I do not have the
tool to adjust them.  I'm sure the tool is available or could be "home
made".



I have removed the rear Koni shocks and replaced them with the KYB's that
were on my Westy when I purchased it.  I will remove the front Koni shocks
when my new shocks arrive "in seven to ten working days".  All these items
are in very good condition and I would be happy to send photos to interested
buyers.



These items are HEAVY!  The 4 springs weigh just under 40.  The 2 rear
shocks weigh about 15 pounds.  I would guess the fronts weigh a little less
than the rears.  I am located on Bainbridge Island, 7 miles west of Seattle,
Washington.



Please contact me off list for questions and/or photos.



Andrew Martin



Bainbridge Island WA



campahvan@earthlink.net



ramblinvan@earthlink.net