DANGER OF DEATH - DI DION TUBE

JOHN JOHNSON

New Member
ON RETURNING FROM A WEDDING TODAY, AFTER DROPPING SOME PASSENGERS OFF,ABOUT A MILE FROM HOME THE CAR LURCHED VIOLENTLEY TO THE RIGHT THROWING ITSELF ACROSS THE OPPOSITE OF THE ROAD, IT TOOK ALL OF MY POWER & YEARS OF EX FIREMAN DRIVING EXPERIENCE TO BRING IT UNDER CONTROL.

PROBLEM SOURCED LATER WAS THAT THE LOWER SUSPENSION ARM HAD SHEARED OFF THE OFF SIDE BOTTOM FIXING ON THE DI DION TUBE , DUE TO UNNOTICED CORROSION I PRESUME.

? ARE THESE ITEMS EXPENSIVE TO PLACE, CAN YOU GET THEM?

REGARDS TO ALL

JOHN
 
John

Do you mean it sheared off the "curved tube bit" on the end of the dion tube just inboard of the wheel?

If so this is called the "DeDion elbow" and is know for corroding away inside with little or no signs on the outside.
If you had a lot of weight in the car (full rear seat) for the first time in a long time - if that makes sense - then that could have been the final straw.
This has happened before, and probably will again, to members cars. You were lucky that you were able to control the car although bet you did not feel lucky at the time!

Regarding replacement yes they can be got. I presume that you are not claiming on the insurance so suggest that you contact 'Uncle Ian' again. I believe he has a couple of new ones knocking about, if not then he should have some good second-hand ones. If he can not help then ring me as I have a number of a guy near London that reconditions P6 suspension parts. Not as cheap as 'Uncle Ian' but when you need the bit then you got to get the wallet out.
 
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