Greetings once again from Moscow. As most of you know, I bought a 1990 4 wheel drive 2 litre turbo townie a few months ago. I have not really had any real problems save backing into a pole last week and shattering the back glass. My biggest complaint is the suspension. It rides like a tank and the smallest bump sends a thump though the front dash. I changed all 4 shock absorbers and the front lower ball joints, but to no avail. Very expensive and not one bit of difference. I released some air from the tires today ( down to 2.2 bar ) and it might have helped a tad. I have read all the info on suspesion on this sight, but was wondering if someone has had the same problem I am having and might have some advice. I do not have tems.

My next question is about wind noise coming through the front windows
when I get up to 70kph I start hearing a wheeeew sound from the wind coming through. I know for the most part it is that the van is 12 years old and the rubber is old. Does anyone have a quick home made fix.

One more Q
I went to a full synthentic magnetic oil. My Russian mechanic said on synthetic I can drive 15,000 kilometers before changing. Is this true?

thanks for the help

P.s. regarding translation of the russian manuel
my interpreter is looking for additional work and would probably be able to translate sections of the manuel for a reasonable price. You can contact me direct concerning this.

- (#5017) Mervin, 6 Aug 02

Hiya Mervin, Ive owned 2 townies and Im afraid that the"solid" suspension seems to be the nature of the beast Im afraid, also must admit that both have also been very windy through the front windows also, sorry hope this doesnt depress you.

- (#5020) phil, 6 Aug 02

Mervin,
I have tried to investigate the front suspension on my Masterace. I have changed the s/absorbers and thoroughly checked all of the suspension joints etc but, have little improvement. I, too get that "thump" through the front suspension, even over the slightest bump or depression in the road. David Miller has suggested that some "lost motion" in any of the joints, will transmit to the body via the torsion bar mountings, even a too slack wheel bearing and, I am sure he is right. If you test your suspension, as I have done, by allowing the vehicle to coast, slowly, over a smooth surface, and apply the brakes, intemittently, on and off, you will see that the suspension "sinks" and "rises" pefectly and is as good as many other vehicles. Unfortunately, it does not seem to be able to handle even the slightest jolt. I am still investigating this problem and, if I can pinpoint any area where there might be excessive play which I think is contributing to this harsh operation, I will certainly post the information.

- (#5034) John Davis, 7 Aug 02