Superfine ,
The original lever arm shockers work very well when adjusted correctly and have the correct oil to the recommended level .
Problems can occur when the seals leak and the oil level drops , owners often don't take care in cleaning around the filler caps before toping up , this can allow debris to enter the shocker and work like grinding paste on the piston bores.
As mentioned by Geoff Kingston the Tufnol valve discs can split over time, which have the effect of the shocker not working in one direction.
These shockers are extremely well made and fully adjustable in both directions .
I suggest you read the 400 - 403 workshop manual before you make a decision on which way to proceed, it gives a step by step account of how to repair and adjust them correctly .
On high mileage vehicles the shock pads can wear , which gives a slight clicking sound but does not effect the functioning of the shocker .
These shock pads might not be readily available .
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If you decide not to stick with the original shockers you can fit the appropriate front shocker parts from a 401 of chassis number 1006 or later and all 403's .
These parts bolt directly to the 400 cross member without major modification .Depending on the specification / production date of you car the front inner wing ducting might need modification for clearance with the telescopic shockers.
or
As Stefan suggested, fit a complete front cross member from a 405 or 406
Brian May could have some of the parts available .
On the rear ,the later 400's (late 1950 production) were originally fitted with Telescopic shockers . There is a section in the Workshop Manual on how to convert a early 400 to telescopic shockers on the rear .
I have made kits of parts to do this conversion and Spax adjustable shockers are available for front & rear.
It is a time consuming job but usually within the capabilities of most home mechanic/restorers .
Could you please advise the chassis number of your 400 as I'm currently trying to update the 400 Register .
Have you recently bought the 400??
Regards
Geoff D
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