SiriusBlack

Well they aren't upgraded like I was hoping to get, but rockauto has sachi struts under 86 GL 1.8 OHV. Only right hand, but the spring cup isn't offset, so it should fit both sides. I've ordered two while we conduct further research into aftermarket alternatives.

@SuspiciousPizza I'm not sure about an L series, as I'm not sure what you're refering to. If you mean a loyale, then no it won't fit a BRAT. The BRAT along with the Leone Sedan, wagon, and hardtop all shared the same suspension mounting through the 80s as far as I know. Even the XT (minus the XT6 which was different thanks to its 5 bolt hubs and the three bolt top hat of the XT4) had the same suspension mounting style as the Leone line. This stems from the BRAT not actually being its own thing, but rather being built off the 4WD Leone wagon, and sharing its underpinnings.

I've been looking at 80s era Citroen struts, as apparently the air struts in the XT were sourced from Citroen. Knowing that the XT and other Subaru's of the 80s shared the same suspension mounting style (minus the three bolt top mount on the XT) I think some Citroen struts may be a good lead to check out as well.

So, so, SO many of us need struts :(. And yet not a single aftermarket company seems to make them in any way shape or form.

Tough to tell from the one pic, but could it be? A direct bolt in? It claims a tube diameter of 45mm like you said. https://bilstein.com.au/shock-absorbers/bilstein-coilover-kit-shock-absorber-206/

I may just have to, my BRAT really needs new struts. At the very least I'd be adding new knowledge to the old gen scrolls, lol! *sigh* I was really hoping for some gorilla units, as I adore the ones in my STi, but no matter how many times I email them, they never agree to make actual BRAT parts...

Yeah, that's what I was concerned about. Unfortunately I don't have any other ideas for new BRAT suspension that don't involve a five lug swap. ISC used to build struts to order, but they don't seem to anymore.

@bushytailsIf I get complete assemblies from Gorilla, they offer three different spring rates. So I could get firmer springs. My primary concern outside of them bolting up, is travel. I'm pretty sure sambar coilovers don't have as much travel as a BRAT. I'd love to get some used sambar struts just to see if they'll bolt up, but I have no idea where to find some. I did email Gorilla for further specs, but have yet to hear back.

Sorry for the late update on this Issue. I'm pretty sure the contacts in the ignition switch are bad. I installed a push button that gives the starter a direct 12V upon press. So when the issue pops up, just key on and Push button.

Hey all. I'm needing new front suspension assemblies for my 86 BRAT, and of course have been unable to find any new assemblies. However for those of you that have gotten suspension from GorillaOffroadCompany, have you looked at their offerings for the subaru Sambar? The assemblies look shockingly close to a BRAT's. So has anyone ever tried fitting any kind of Sambar suspension to a BRAT? Are the upper mount spacing and lower tube diameters right for direct bolt in? I bought a set of silverback limited coilovers for my STi some years ago and love them, so if anyone has tried this, I would be extremely curious to know how it went. As always Thanks in advance for any help.

@nvu Yeah I figured that out after I did it XD.

For it to be toast, it would of had to have been out of the box. It's a brand new starter and solenoid. Which is entirely possible.

I have now jumpered both clutch switches. We'll see if that fixes it.

@1 Lucky Texan Is there any way to delete or bypass the clutch safety switch? I certainly don't need it.

@forester2002sThere is an audible click when they key is turned, however the solenoid was replaced along with the starter.