Mk5 IFS into mk3 Independent front suspension

[Bruce e]

I am putting mk5 IFS into my mk3 and I am trying to work out the shocks. Are the shocks themselves the same and is the load spreading mounting at the top that is different .The mk3 is 1988 and have found shocks for 1991 to 1999. Mk3 parts are impossible to get in NZ as they were never officially imported by Ford


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[dumper]

viewtopic.php?f=13&t=65 Try this m8

[Keef]

The bottom of the shocks are definitely different but I'm not sure about the tops.
You might be able to use a Mk5 shock with a Mk3 top mount or maybe redrill your van to accept the Mk5 3 bolt top mount?
If your current shocks are ok, you can elongate the bottom mounting holes to fit the Mk5 hub.
I've got a Mk3 that I'm told has Mk5 ifs with Mk5 shocks but I have only just got it and haven't looked to see how they've done it yet.
I believe the front subframe horns are slightly different but that might just be hole sizes?
I'll be interested to see how you get on with this.

[dumper]

When I had my mk3 it had a Ford recall for the front suspension top mounting they drilled holes in the two panels that the shocker went into and bolted them together with 3or 4 6mil bolts probably on the later models they used more spot welds to hold them together

[Bruce e]

Thanks guys, have a good downer IFS with bigger springs brakes and 6 stud 15 inch wheels

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[MinorMatt]

As you have spitted, the top of the dampers are different.

The hole spacing where it mounts to the hub is different too - but that can be "adjusted" with a round file