205 handling

Now that I've got my exhaust sorted out (see "Help - rare 205 exhaust")
I'd like see if the handling can be improved.

The car is a standard 1992 1.4GR and I'm looking to get the handling back
to normal (as opposed to modifying the car with, for example, a sports
handling kit.

How can I tell if any suspension joints are worn and having a detrimental
effect on the handling ?

Is there a way of testing the shock absorbers to see if they need
replacing (other than the press down on four corners test). I mean, if I
took it to a fast fit centre, and asked them to check them, what would
they do ?

 

They would press down on each corner and see if they are leaking, that's
all. Avoid fast fit centres like the plague, and if you don't feel
qualified to do the work yourself, find an independent specialist.

 

Hi,

Yeah, I pretty agree with you. They'll test (or do like testing), and say
"damn, all 4 are worn, how can you drive that ?", and then "we can replace
all four for a new set, brand new, of the XXX brand, which are better than
the Pug originals".
Then you'll end up with a list which matches the checklist, worn discs, worn
plates, and so on... Even if they are brand new !

There are many horror stories about such centers here, in France...