Marina/Ital Bottom Shock Absorber Bracket

1. The drawings on the .PDF link below are shown with measurements taken from a real bracket (shown).  These drawings represent the right hand bracket, you will need to make up two brackets on opposite hands.

2. Given that most steel available is now  metric, I have shown the measurements in metric.  It must be remembered that the bracket itself was manufactured at a time when the UK was switching from imperial to metric units and as such some of the measurements look a little strange.

3. The one dimension shown in imperial units is the threaded nut welded to the bracket.  This is ½” UNF on the piece, but I guess that you could use an M12 nut in its place.  If you use an M12 bolt please adjust the size of the holes accordingly.  Also, if you use a metric bolt, don’t forget to specify a metric I/D bush for the shocker end.  I used a longer bolt than was necessary when I fitted my bracket, as it enabled me to use a ‘nylock’ nut on the back of the welded nut to lock everything up solid, without over tightening the bolt and closing up the bracket width.

4. In my opinion, there are two key dimensions in these brackets, firstly the main shock absorber bolt-holes must be the same height to line up (marked A on the drawings).  Secondly the two other holes must be in line and the correct distance apart, to accommodate the Tie Bar Yoke.

5. Your Marina Tie Bar Yoke that normally fits into the lower suspension arm, will fit this bracket, but the threaded section will be too short to poke out of the back of the bracket, to get a nut on.  You’ll have to get some made up the right length.  When I have tracked a spare yoke down, I’ll get a drawing done.

6. The existing bolt that mounts vertically through the Tie Bar Yoke and pins the suspension end of the tie bar, will also need to be replaced with a longer bolt.  This will take the thickness of the new bracket and the spacer that is welded on underneath.  The suspension arms vary in thickness, so have some washers to hand when fitting the tie bar yoke, in case there is a gap between the bottom of the spacer and the tie bar yoke.  Mine needed an extra washer to pack out the gap.

7. The spacer referred to above has one side flatted off; so that it buts up to, but does not foul the suspension arm.

8. Lastly, if you use these drawings and it works out, please do let me know.  I have been corresponding with Marina owners all round the world on these – enjoy!

Drawings Link

Chris Weedon