When the Shock is too much

Less than two months ago, Brian brought his car in for shakken, the 'inspection' that needs to be done every two years. It seems his ageing-but-still-powerful 1992 Mitsubishi Pajero needed a bit of extra work to be able to pass the inspection. Part of what needed to be done was having the suspension bushings replaced, and considering the expense, our mechanic, the delightful Hara-san, called to inform Brian that it might be time to look for a new car. After much thought and research, Brian declined; his car is in the best shape with the lowest mileage compared to even newer models available. It was worth the 200,000 yen to get his car back on the road.

However - just this week, we noticed an oil spot under the right (driver's side in Japan) rear of the car. Brian immediately deduced that it was the shock. He drove it over to Hara-san today for an appraisal, and was told that one shock would run 20,000 yen, and installation 3,000 yen. Good job I wasn't there, or I would have visibly gasped and choked, and I'm sure that Brian was more discreet:-) (I secretly believe one of the mechanics who replaced the bushings is responsible for the too-coincidental leak). After enquiring whether Hara would install other shocks if we purchased them ourselves, Brian received very enthusiastic nods. Of course they would, and at a discount. Which is good, because as Brian says it's a simple enough job and he would do it himself if only he had a place and tools!

Anyway, tonight Brian did lots of research, scanned the Yahoo Japan Auction (our equivalent of e-Bay), and finally settled on these, the Rancho RS 5000. I'm the 'auction and online shopper', and since I hadn't used the Yahoo Japan Auction in over a year, and not since their new website layout/design, it was good practice for me to get back into it. We placed a successful bid, and now look forward to owning the new shocks! I'll make the bank transfer tomorrow and we, with luck, should have the shocks by Monday or Tuesday, and then installed by Friday next week.

Only drawback - the Pajero has push-button electronic shock adjustability, and this we will lose with the new shocks. It's a small price to pay, however, to save a thousand dollars and keep the car we love.