The hydraulic suspension system on my 87 XJ6 is not working. I have been told that this is a common problem on these models and the best thing to do is to convert it to a standard system. What is involved in this and what should I expect to pay for someone to do this OR is this something that a person with a mechanical inclination could do themselves?

Submitted by triath5147@msn.com on Sat, 08/21/2010 - 11:44

If it is an XJ40 it is a simple retrofit. Take your old struts out and take them to a garage with a spring compressor to change the spring from the old struts to the new ones.( I suggest you also buy new bushings, this is the time to change them.)
Save the bleed screw from the top of the old strut.
Under the bonnet on the passenger side is a hydraulic block that sends hydraulic fluid to the rear. Find the rear line, ( the one that will run down the fire wall to the rear of the vehicle.) disconnect it, and use the bleeder screw from the old strut to close off that circuit.
Minus the drive time to my mechanic, it took me all but one hour to do the conversion. It's well worth it.

Submitted by SE98-32482CJ on Tue, 06/01/2010 - 04:46

Bill if your car is in fact a 1988 model year (MY) and not a Series 3 then it is often called a XJ40 (the model designation). If so then yes it is a common problem and there are kits to fix it. If you can follow instructions and have a good set of tools you might possibly do most of the work but you will need some special tools such as the press and fittings to change the shocks. If your car is in fact a 1987 see Williams post.

Submitted by wljenkins@usa.net on Mon, 05/31/2010 - 23:54

There is no "hydraulic suspension" on Series III XJ6s that I'm aware of. There are four regular shock absorbers, two on each side that are very easy to replace.