[Healeys] Front shock gasket question

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This is just the sort of thing that makes me ashamed to even
be a Healey owner -:( !!

<<I9m about to reinstall front shocks on my 65 BJ8. They were cleaned up 
and painted, but have been sitting for about two months in a box. I now 
notice
that the gaskets are weeping a little oil -- even after a tightening up 
that back plate a month ago. They9re both in good shape otherwise I 
think (good steady resistance). Is it ok to jus take the back plate off 
and replace the gaskets or
will bits pop out at me requiring more internal work?

Good source for gaskets? Or, can I make them up of standard gasket material? >>

N.F.I. !!!!

Shox ARE a SAFETY item.  If [and/or when] one or more is 
"leaking" there IS more that is WRONG with it/them.  They 
ARE at least 40 years OLD.

There is ZERO doubt in MY mind that a "sign" such as that
MEANS that they need PROFESSIONAL attention, and NOT
some "shadetree self-professed wrench" assessment and
REPAIR !!!

If one cannot afford to take care of a SAFETY item, one
should NOT be driving the vehicle [and gives rise to the question
of "should I even own this car"??], period.

Ed