Broken Cobra on Bartlett Lake Dam Road

[Cactus Bob]

It has been an interesting morning with calls to both FFR and Bilstein. To answer a question earlier, my car is a Mark III which I built in 2006. All the information that has been posted thus far is correct. I was supposed to have received a factory recall which I did not. The Bilstein shocks experienced shaft breaks, just above the locknut, which they contend were due to both the shaft diameter being too narrow (allegedly spec'd by FFR and specially built for FFR) as well as lateral forces created by the spring and design of the top hat. The solution was that Bilstein rebuilt the shocks under warranty. They claim to have the tools and technology to disassemble and re-assemble the shocks with larger diameter shafts. FFR then redesigned the top hat and went to different spring rates. I suspect there is bad blood between vendors as FFR is now using Koni shocks. That being said, there was a Koni shock recall on the forum as well. I did not research that one. Bilstein have life time warranties on their shocks (FYI).

FFR agreed to ship new Bilsteins and springs to me....it was the last set on the shelf. Thereafter, I am not sure what happens. If any of you have concern I do know the shocks have similar last four digits to this listed (2005BE3 A 273T0).

[Scotchman]

Bob,
It's remarkable you guys didn't end up in a ravine along the route. You must have good Mojo !
An interesting note - I received delivery of my FFR Mark-lll kit on January 2, 2008. It came with Konis, and directions to mount the front shocks upside down. I think it was for better structural support, and maybe clearance. I havn't had any issues.
I am unaware of any Koni recall. Maybe I should call FFR. Any of you guys have info on it ?

[Finallygotit]

Originally Posted by Scotchman

I am unaware of any Koni recall. Maybe I should call FFR. Any of you guys have info on it ?

Here you go.... KONI shock Alert - FFCars.com : Factory Five Racing Discussion Forum