Replacement front lever arm shock absorber for Austin Healey BN1 to BJ8 models. This new unit uses the later-style turret-top body introduced on later BMC applications in place of the earlier flat-top design originally fitted to Healey models.
The damping operation remains compatible with the original suspension layout, but installation may require modification to the inner wheel arch for clearance depending on the car and the shock absorbers previously fitted.
Key Benefits
- Direct replacement lever arm front shock absorber
- Suitable for Austin Healey BN1 through to BJ8 models
- Newly manufactured unit
- Later turret-top body construction
- Compatible with original suspension geometry
- Retains original-style lever arm suspension operation
- Suitable for road and touring use
Fitment
Fits Austin Healey Big Healey models BN1, BN2, BN4, BN6, BN7, BT7 and BJ8 fitted with standard front lever arm suspension.
Originally, BN1 to BJ8 models used a flat-top front shock absorber body. This replacement uses the later turret-top casting style developed for later BMC vehicles including the MGB and MGC.
Clearance between the turret-top body and the lower edge of the inner wheel arch must be checked during installation. Some vehicles may already have sufficient clearance if turret-top shock absorbers were fitted previously.
Material removal from the wheel arch may be required. The amount varies between cars and should always be measured before modification. Six-cylinder models commonly require clearance adjustment, while BN1 and BN2 models may require more or less material removal depending on chassis tolerances and previous repairs.
What’s Included
- One new front lever arm shock absorber
Mounting hardware, suspension fasteners and installation shims are not included unless otherwise stated.
Technical Details
- Lever arm hydraulic shock absorber
- Later turret-top body design
- Standard damping specification
- Compatible with original front suspension arms
- Hydraulic fluid pre-filled
As with all lever arm shock absorbers, mounting faces, arm movement and suspension geometry should be inspected before installation. Excessive suspension wear elsewhere can affect ride and damping performance.
Installation
Professional installation is recommended where wheel arch modification is required.
Before fitting:
- Check clearance between the shock absorber body and inner wheel arch
- Inspect mounting threads and suspension arms for wear
- Confirm suspension alignment and condition of bushes
- Measure required wheel arch clearance before removing material
Some installations may require trimming of the wheel arch edge to achieve safe operating clearance. Paint protection should be restored to any modified metal surfaces after fitting.
Why Choose This Part
Lever arm dampers remain an important part of the original Austin Healey suspension design and steering feel. This replacement provides a practical solution for owners maintaining standard suspension configuration while using a newly manufactured hydraulic unit rather than rebuilding worn originals.
The later turret-top body construction follows the improved BMC casting style used on later applications, though installation clearance should always be checked carefully before fitting.