Just one codicil to Richard's informative post. Last year Techniques installed and set up my SSL front suspension, and indeed deleted the damper blades with no discernible negative effects. The car has just been back to them for the installation of a much quicker steering rack, and lo and behold there was a shimmy which they could not tune out until they reinstalled the damper blades. It doesn't make logical sense (to me, at least), but it worked.
Ditto to John07's post - neither of you are far from me (I'm in Richmond), so if either of you are heading this way, PM me and I'll get the kettle on!
Dave
