Parts for your 1987 Mitsubishi Pajero-Shock absorbers

1987 Mitsubishi Pajero shock absorbers

Technical references confirm the 1987 Mitsubishi Pajero is equipped with shock absorbers front and rear. The Mitsubishi Pajero/Montero Factory Service Manual (1982–1991) details removal and installation of front telescopic dampers and rear dampers on both leaf- and coil-sprung variants. Aftermarket catalogues from KYB and Monroe list dedicated shock absorber part numbers for the 1987 Pajero (L040/V14 series). Gregory’s and Haynes workshop manuals covering 1983–1996 Pajero/Montero likewise specify shocks as standard equipment.

On this model, the front runs independent suspension with torsion bars and telescopic hydraulic shocks, while the rear uses a live axle with either leaf springs (many SWB) or coils (commonly LWB) paired to rear shocks. Their job is to control spring movement, keep tyres planted on corrugations, tidy up body roll and pitch, and rein in that classic Pajero bounce after big hits. Good shocks mean better steering feel, shorter stopping distances, and less tyre cupping on Aussie and Kiwi roads and tracks.

Service-wise, owners typically see 80,000–120,000 km out of quality shocks on mixed road use, heavy towing, beach work, and outback corrugations can halve that. A quick inspection every service (10,000–15,000 km) is smart: look for oil seepage down the body, dented housings, perished bushes, uneven or cupped tyre wear, a floaty or nervous feel at 80–100 km/h, nose-diving under brakes, and extra bounce after speed humps.

• Always replace in axle pairs (front or rear) to keep handling predictable.
• Check and replace mounting bushes and hardware if worn, torque fasteners at normal ride height.
• Inspect dust boots and bump stops, replace if split or missing.
• After fitting, get a wheel alignment, especially on the IFS front end.
• Match shocks to how the Pajero is used: OE-style twin-tube for comfort, heavy-duty or gas-charged for towing and corrugations, or long-travel units if running a legal lift.

For DIYers, support the control arms or rear axle safely before removal, use penetrating fluid on old hardware, and mind brake hoses and ABS wiring when letting the axle droop. If the vehicle has a suspension lift or extra accessories (barwork, winch, drawers), choose shocks valved for the added weight to avoid pogoing or harsh top-out. Keeping the Pajero’s shocks fresh preserves ride comfort, reduces chassis stress, and keeps it sure-footed on wet chip seal, gravel, and rutted station tracks.

Popular questions about 1987 Mitsubishi Pajero shock absorbers

How often should shock absorbers be replaced on a 1987 Pajero?
Most owners plan on 80,000–120,000 km for sealed-road driving. Frequent gravel, corrugations, or towing can bring that down to 40,000–80,000 km. Condition matters more than kilometres, so regular checks for leaks, bounce, and tyre wear patterns are the go.

What are the signs the shocks are worn on a Gen 1 Pajero?
Common giveaways include oil on the shock body, a floaty or boaty feel at highway speeds, multiple bounces after a bump, nose-dive under braking, side-to-side wallow on roundabouts, clunks over potholes, and cupped front or rear tyres.

Can heavy-duty or gas shocks improve off-road and towing performance?
Yes. Quality heavy-duty or gas-pressurised shocks resist fade on corrugations, control load better, and sharpen steering when towing. They should be matched to vehicle weight (barwork, winch, drawers) and spring rate, if lifted, ensure correct length to maintain droop without topping out.