carl555

iTrader: (7)

Hi, My car (Impreza Turbo MY00) is going into the dealers next week for both rear shockers to be replaced.

My question – Is there a need to do the geometry or tracking after changing just these rear shocks? Should the dealer be doing this? (It’s being done under warranty but they haven’t mentioned doing the tracking).



Ok, Ok – I know its ideal to get the fast road geometry set up done anyway, which I will be having done by a Subaru specialist, but due to work & holls its going to be at least 6 weeks after having the shockers replaced and I’m worried about adverse tyre wear in that time.

Thanks for any advice – I like to have the answers BEFORE I go into the dealers !!!
Carl

911

I would say yes to your question. I think the main issue will be the camber accuracy not the toe in/out. The bolts that are used to set the rear hub camber to the strut are disturbed (removed) to change the struts, and they need to go back correctly and equally in the car.
911

carl555

iTrader: (7)

Thanks 911,
I’ll speak to them and find out if they are going to set the camber after replacement.

What do you need set up the camber?
Does the equipment you see used in the tyre depots (that hooks over the 4 wheels and costs about £30 for a check and adjust) do this job? Or is it something more specialised?

Carl……

DuncanG

As standard though the back end doesn't have camber adjusting bolts. I doubt the garage will expecting to do a geometry setup.

Of course its worthwhile anyway as the factory setup tolerances are huge.

911

Carl, I think he is right!
The rear struts may be size for size for the bolt holes, so adjustment may be very limited.
The fronts do have eccentric bolts as the camber is more critical, but maybe not on the back. It was a long time ago when i did this job.
Either way, it must be worth the £ to get them to check it on the alignment ramp.
911

EwanS

Carl,
When I had mine done My01, there was no adjustment at the rear strut bolt mountings. the only adjustment are inboard at the tie bar central connections to the body (next to the diff housing). these are adjusted during the geometry but only at that stage, you should be ok just changing the shocks
to answer the question, If they are only changing the struts, then No the alignments need not be done, there is no adjustment at the connections in question
EwanS

carl555

iTrader: (7)

Great stuff – 911, Ewan, Duncan, thanks for the detailed replies – it’s really appreciated.

Looks like the dealer will be fine just replacing these.

Cheers, Carl.

911

Yes, sorry for my ****-up! Another Senior Moment.....
911