Why does nissan use the struts instead of shocks. Do they perform better, last longer? Is it just a way to save room? I was always under the impression struts were better handling than shocks but when I look into my girlfriends BMW wheel well I saw a shock and I was shocked.

 

Think transverse mounted v6 engine in a FWD configuration

 

OK is that why the rear is strut not shock

 

All four corners use struts. The difference when you replace them:

Front: you replace the whole strut assembly.
Rears: you buy SHOCKS and install them into the existing strut assembly.

 

OK I now the differance because I have changed my own springs and changed alot of shocks. I just don't see why? Struts are a PITA to change but shocks are easy. I just wanted to reinsure my new theory that struts=save room not perform better than shocks.

 

I just ordered a set of 4 Tokicos shocks and 4 Eibach springs for my wife's 92 Maxima.

Do I have all the parts I need, or am I missing something?

I do this kind of crap all the time.

Thanks guys...

 

mostly, the struts are a space and ease-of-design feature. it's one assembly and the suspension is done. bolt some arms to the end of it and let them pivot. bang! it's done.
maintenance? well the fronts are 5 bolts and it's out. rears are a bit more, but not much. I can change a front strut in 15 minutes flat. rears take an hour or so.

Why did they do it?
1. they're much easier to work on than a suspension with springs & shocks. fewer parts.
2. cheaper
3. easier to design.



As for replacing the springs and struts, you also need new dust boots/bump stops. also check the bushings on the spring perches and make sure they're not worn out. if they have holes worn in them, they can cause annoying thunks and squeaks on bumps. the dust boots MUST be replaced though, or you'll void the warranty on the Tokicos.

 

Do you think I can pick those up locally? (i.e. Pepboys, Advance Auto Parts, Napa, etc.) or am I going to have to order those?

Is this the stuff you're talking about? (The KYB stuff at the bottom)
Tire Rack's Stuff

If so, do those look like decent prices, or is there somewhere else online?


Thanks!

 

Hey Matt,

I am about to get some used tokicos for the front of the maxima. Will I still need new dust boots for them?? The rear ones are going to be brand new because I cant afford to buy them all brand new. They only have like 4,000 miles. I hope I will have a lot better ride quality after I replace them this week hopefully.

 

Yes, those are what I'm talking about. considering the age of our cars, I can assure you the OEM ones (or anything over ~4 years old) are dry and cracked and falling apart.

Tire Rack has good prices on them, but you still have to pay for shipping. most local parts stores can get them (although different brands) for $10-15 each. OEM are about $25 each.