Dollywobbler's 1995 S2 2.1 TD SX Manual

[dollywobbler]

It's not sand, just off-cuts from fence posts. Probably 400kg plus trailer. And the blue sky has gone now.

However, it is handy being able to raise the car's suspension, to reduce the ramp angle. One bag emptied out so far.

[Dieselman]

I suspect it is the low pressure spheres causing the ride to change. An XM should tow well.

[dollywobbler]

Aye. I'm minded to agree. Though I've had a similar effect in non-hydractive Citroens when towing before. I'm pretty sure my immovable centre sphere is weak though.

[mds141]

I've found the ride quality to improve slightly whilst towing the caravan. Plus it gives the rear brakes a good workout.

[White Exec]

I've found the ride quality to improve slightly whilst towing the caravan. Plus it gives the rear brakes a good workout.

Interesting observation, Mark.
Where the XM has significant weight over the front wheels (particularly in the case of the diesels), the back end is fairly lightweight in comparison. The suspension is at its best when it's acting against considerable weight or inertia, particularly in the later versions of the fluid suspension. Caravan towing, or just a couple of rear seat passengers, can bring out the best in the ride.

Probably why XM back end ride is so nasty when the (rear) centre sphere isn't doing its stuff, all the more so with an empty car.

The ride in a hydraupneumatically suspended Rolls Royce must have been quite sublime.

[dollywobbler]

Don't forget that the Roller always used coil springs, conventional shockers AND spheres. Really, the spheres were there purely for self-levelling. The ride is pretty darned sublime though.

I guess I'm going to have to find a way to get this sodding centre sphere changed.

[White Exec]

It just has to unscrew.
I know you've done it before, but
- relieve fluid pressure (by every means available)
- get a stillson or something on the sphere holder to prevent twisting
- clout sphere as per expert advice
- use sphere removal tool, with extension tube if nec., and heave

Well, that's how I'd try it!

[Dieselman]

I had to chisel a centre rear sphere off as it really was bound on tightly.

[xmexclusive]

The bolt fixings into the rear axle tube are just spring clips.
They are easily damaged and give.
The 10mm main feed pipes are no longer available.
I would be inclined to get a spare base and fit that with the new sphere.
The remove the old one with the base in a big vice.

John

[White Exec]

Just as an afterthought, if there's any doubt whether system pressure has/has not been relieved (if it hasn't, getting the sphere unscrewed will be nigh on impossible), there is a drastic course of action available...
- remove sphere top plug, so releasing any gas
- spear the diaphragm with a suitable spike - and be prepared for an outrush of fluid

That will knock the pressure off.