Just to say that, as very much an amateur, I've changed the drivers side drop link today, this thread is invaluable, as are the photos thanks. I didn't have any issues, just follow the thread and take your time, it's pretty straightforward.

The reason they need changing is because the drivers side drop link was chattering away whilst driving, especially over bumps and potholes, the problem being that the ball in the socket on the top of the drop link had worn away to such an extent that the ball was very loose in the socket. (see enclosed image, rubber cover removed, click to enlarge)

The socket is swimming in water, no doubt due to the rubber cover no longer doing its job. New drip links bought from DMGRS. I suspect the drop links are probably the original ones. Very heavily corroded. I didn't have any suitable grease to fill the ball sockets with, but the new ones are guaranteed for four years and the old ones are a lot older than that! However I'd say it's an excellent idea to fill the boots with grease.

I didn't shorten the top thread on the new one, but I did put the angle grinder on the spanners as suggested above.

Due to rain tomorrow, on Saturday I'll do the passenger side drop link. It doesn't suffer from the chattering issue, or any other problem, but I do strongly feel that suspension items should be changed as a pair, especially given the age and mileage.

Oh, I APC'd and then jetwashed the work area the day before, It's a lot easier when one has a clean area to work with.

Ali.

Hi Ali,

The originals have reinforced boots and no wire ring at the large diameter end so from your image I would say that yours are indeed the factory fitment.
Mine were too but after 22 years service the rubber started cracking so reluctantly I changed them during my spring replacement project!

Simon

Replaced the passenger side today. This is a perfect example of why things should be replaced in pairs:

https://www.the75andztclub.co.uk/for...1&d=1636811372

Totally different drop links, different geometry as well. I know they're self adjusting but still.

The passenger side one was actually in good condition, not as much rust and rubber was still doing it's job as there was no water inside the joints.

Obviously the passenger side one has been replaced at some point in the past but they left the original drivers side one in place.

Whilst I had the wheels off I took the front brakes apart and inspected, cleaned and re-greased them.. Also checked over the front suspension, all looks ok, no obvious wear that needs attention. One should never miss an opportunity for some maintenance when the car is up and one's tools are out!

Short test drive over potholes and sharp turns of the steering wheel etc with the windows down showed that the problem has been solved, no strange noises and the brakes are working a bit better now as well.

Thanks to all the club members and these how to threads. Worth their weight in gold!

Ali.