Strut Return Pipes (again)

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Tim Leech
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Strut Return Pipes (again)

Post by Tim Leech »

Ive looked in the archives and cant see it so apologies for asking again.

The n/s strut return on the TZi is broken, Ive got the part number so will get one from Citroen tomorrow, how do I removed the pipe from the strut, I gave it a bit of a pull but it wouldnt budge, the other end was a doddle.

On the plus side ive lubricated the n/s with the tried and tested method as mentioned on here and its much improved! :D
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Post by Kitch »

The rubber return pipe? You twist the metal clip and pull it off at the other end.
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Post by kiwi »

Having just replaced two on the smae side of both BXs, I got it down to a fine art :lol:

Pair of pliers is needed on the clip that attachs to the strut, chances are your going to bugger up that clip in your attempts to remove it.

Two pipes connecting into the metal pipe "should" come off with just a tug if not some gentle twisting witht he long nosed pliers works to ease them off.

I have not replaced my clips I removed the metal back plate on the clip that fits over the rubber block (only way to describe) that fits to the strut and used a hose clip to hold the pipe in place. Funny enough the clip I removed on the TRS looked genuine iffact it was just a metal cable tie of sorts. Besides that replacing the genuine clips is a worse nightmare than removing IMO.
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Post by Way2go »

Pliers are OK for removing the clip but not much good for replacing it. Carpenters Pincers are much better for the fastening of the clip. :D If you relieve the tension with the Pincers when you undo it with the Pliers there is a much greater chance you can re-use the existing clip.

My clips have lasted for 3 pipes now which is good because they cost as much as the pipes and the rubber that GSF have their pipes made out of is total shit which lasts only 2 MOT's if you're really lucky!
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Tim Leech
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Post by Tim Leech »

Ah ha! there is a metal clip then, just though I wasn't exerting enough pressure, will probably by the clip at the same time as knowing butterfingers here I will bust it.

I take it one would need to jack it up and take off the road wheel to get at it easier.

Thanks.
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Post by Brian »

These pipes can be repaired in-situ, easily..

http://www.frenchcarforum.co.uk/forum/v ... php?t=8627
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Post by Tim Leech »

Thanks Brian, mine have snapped about half way, so I will buy a complete new one from Citroen, for £14 I think they are reasonably priced.
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Post by MULLEY »

Didnt they use to be less than a 10er not that long ago? I've still got some crappy gsf one's to use up yet, i've got a couple of proper one's which i'll use up last, they'll probably outlast the car by then....
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Tim Leech
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Post by Tim Leech »

Does anyone have a picture I could use of a strut/pipes set up please for the BX'clusive, i want to do a article on it and it would help no end.

Thanks in advance.
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Post by kiwi »

On it this afternoon for you 8)

I got a 12 hour head start as well as being a public holiday Monday 8)
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Post by Tim Leech »

Thank you kind Sir.
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Post by KevR »

kiwi wrote:
I have not replaced my clips I removed the metal back plate on the clip that fits over the rubber block (only way to describe) that fits to the strut and used a hose clip to hold the pipe in place. Funny enough the clip I removed on the TRS looked genuine iffact it was just a metal cable tie of sorts. Besides that replacing the genuine clips is a worse nightmare than removing IMO.
I re-use the metal spreader plate as well, but instead of a hose clip I use a couple of good quality cable ties (in this case the yellow ones they use to hold mail sacks closed - very tough). I've never had a problem with this method on four separate BXs.

The 'metal cable tie' you're referring to sounds like Ligarex strapping. Used properly it's brilliant stuff. I've just bought myself some of the special pliers you need for it, as it's the best stuff for driveshaft joints etc.
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Post by citronut »

Tim stick to polishing and leave those mechanicing bits as you will get your hands dirty :lol:

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Post by Tim Leech »

citronut wrote:Tim stick to polishing and leave those mechanicing bits as you will get your hands dirty :lol:

regards malcolm
Haha, well ive got to learn sometime, its hardly rocket science.
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Post by docchevron »

Neither are arm bearings....
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