Hi Tony,

I replaced all four of my shock absorbers quite a few years ago and did it myself. I have a 1998 Tag axle Hobby 750 FLM and nearly died of the shock when I heard what Alco was charging. I found that my axles were colour coded blue and purchased them from CNF Outdoors I ordered:

two 030-qq007426-al-ko shock absorbers Blue total price £139.96 0n 30/08/2016.

Still going strong.

CNF Outdoors, 52 Owthorpe Rd, Cotgrave, Nottinghamshire, NG123PA  08000096499

sales@cnfoutdoors.co.uk

Hope that all helps in some way bearing in mind that was nearly five years ago.

Hi Tony,

Further to the above, I have had a look at a couple of websites and it looks like Alko use a colour coding for the rating of their SA’s.

I don’t know if you tried emailing Alko on mail.uk@alko-tech.com or phone 01926 818500 for any help.

I had a look at a website homesteadcaravavs.co.uk phone 01255 830229  and they have blue 2701-3500 kg rear axle rated ones at £94.95 a pair. They say for a tandem axle caravan but I would think your rear Alko chassis would be the same.

Another option would be from one of my favourite parts site, buycarparts.co.uk if you put in your Fiat Ducati Chassis cab year etc and select Alko rear shocks it come up with the size of max length 476mm min length 315mm so you could cross reference to yours on the your van. Other makes of shocks available at lower price for the same fitment as well.

Hope that helps

Peter

Hello Tony,

I don’t have a 750 or an Alko chassis on my van, but looking at your problem and the fact that Hobby and Alko have not replied. I would start from basic principles as shock absorbers are not a bespoke unique part for your application and buying from a motor factor or suspension specialist will no doubt be cheaper than from Hobby or Alko.

So initial find your rear axle loading for each rear axle from your VIN plate. If your garage has removed a shock absorber from your van measure the unloaded length and travel, them measure the internal diameter of the top and bottom bush mount. Your garage should be well able to do this for you if you are not able. You or they can then look up suitable replacements from internet sourced catalogues. People like Demon Tweeks or Mad do updated shock absorbers which might be the way to go as you have had several breakages. Other makes are available with coil spring external assistance around the outside of the shock absorber to assist it, if you have room for them.

I hope that helps, but let us know how you get on.

Regards

Peter