HYDROLASTIC PIPES The Hydrolastic system interconnecting pipes are made from Bendy tubing, and therefore, like the brake pipes, are susceptible to corrosion damage after a period of time. The worst areas for corrosion appear to be the points at which the pipes pass between the sub-frames and the vehicle floor pan, and particular attention should be paid here for any signs of fluid leakage. This is usually easily spotted as the suspension fluid is bright green in colour.
The pipes may also suffer physical damage from the impact of stones, etc., due to their open location on the underside of the car. Damage may also be caused to the pipes when attempting to disconnect them, particularly at the rear, as the pipe unions are especially susceptible to corrosion.
Replacement of the interconnecting pipes is reasonably straight-forward but is time consuming in that it involves dropping the rear edge of the, front sub-frame and the front edge of the rear sub-frame to allow the old pipe to be removed and the new pipe to be installed, The procedure for dropping the front sub-frame is similar to that described for removing the steering unit.
Needless to say, the Hydrolastic system must be depressurised and repressurised, as described previously, in the course of the work.
Ensure that the pipe unions are tightened securely, as even a slight leakage will prevent the system from retaining its correct pressure.