Ok, I have read through dozens of suspension threads, but they have only brought up more questions. I have an '89 with 79k on it. The shocks are shot, and the dust boots have practically disintegrated. I plan to replace all 4. Here are my questions:

1) Which shocks should I go with, it seems that people like KYB's and Tokico's. Are there any others? I want something that is somewhat sporty, yet reasonably priced. Are there different models for a 3rd Gen within these brands?

2) Where should I get them? I saw an old post that mentioned good prices at Jagworks.com, but it looks like they are no more. I found some at 2kracing.com through a banner ad, but I don't know if the prices are any good. They want $250 for the front and $180 for the rear Tokico Premium's, and $145/$119 for KYB GR-2's. Do any of the Nissan dealerships that offer a .org discount carry these?

3) Should I replace the springs? From what I have read, springs should last forever, but I am thinking of getting performance springs since I will have access to them when I do the shocks. My daily commute is 40 freeway miles each way. Will it make the ride noticeably harsher? Will my kids get sick from feeling every bump? I don't want it to look like it is lowered either (to the casual observer anyway). On the other hand, it would be nice to zip through the corners without feeling like I am in a boat. Will the shocks alone improve cornering?

4) How do I install them? Well actually I found a link for this, but I just wanted to put that in here for the next guy that is searching on this.
http://www.gen3.4mg.com/library/suspension.html

Thanks for your help guys!

 

KYB-GR2 can be bought for like $48 a piece from either www.foreignautoparts.cc or www.taylorautomotive.com

 

1 - if you have a budget in mind and you're on stock height..KYB should fix u right up. Toks are a little more $...slightly firmer i've heard.

2 - Check www.shox.com ask for Darrell and let him know you're from maxima.org and you want to know what the group price is.

3 - shocks will help u corner..if you're looking for comfort stay w/ the stock height. if you want to minize the lean then slap a set of sway bars on.

4 - hmmm..if you're asking then maybe it's best to let a pro tackle the job. the fronts are standard struts..the rear you need to pull out the stock piston and slide in the aftermarket inserts.

good luck

 

Thanks for the info. One more question. The two sites drstillpatient mentioned have this shock:

KYB GR-2 Gas Strut
Exc. Electronically
Adjustable Suspension

Is the Exc. an abbreviation for except? There is the power/comfort switch by the shifter, but I thought that affected the transmission only. I want to be sure I order the right thing.

 

Do you have amanual or a auto? I thought that the adjustable comfort switch only came on the GXE's and that is for the suspension. I got koni adjustables for about 120 a piece yeah that are much more expensive than KYB's or tokicos, they also are adjustble but the bad thing about that is you have to take apart the whole assebly to do so. There is more work involed if you get koni's also. The springs make a big difference in look and handling. I paid about 200 for those. I didn't think that it made my car that bouncier that normal.

 

the adjustable sonar suspension will have an extra thing beside the p/c (yes thats only for trans) that goes in place of the little coin holder. So you have normal suspension unless you have that extra control.

 

it means these KYB GR2s can be used for all applications EXCEPT to replace the electronic struts (the Sonar Suspension II)... The power comfort switch is ONLY for the tranny...not your suspension...DO you have sonar suspension? if you do, you'll have another set of buttons for the suspension control BESIDE the tranny power/comfort switch.... if you do...then these struts cannot be used without disconnecting the sonar suspension system..or more specifically without disconnecting the electronic actuator motors.

 

Ok, that is what I thought. I don't have any other switches, so it must be the normal suspension. Thanks!

 

I need to replace the shocks on my 89SE with 84k miles. Basically, the same description of the problem. I too do not want to lower my car because it simply makes it too difficult for me to get in and out of the car. I will go with the KYBs.

I just wanted to say thanks to the posters. This is one of the best educational threads I have seen in a while. To the point, and exactly what we needed to know to get the job done.

many thanks,
RickC

 

I used KYBs to replace the Sonar struts on my '89. It works just like a non-sonar job, but at the end your comfort/sport suspension switch doesn't do anything. As for the struts, the KYBs are ok. I've been a little worried, because the back end has been sagging lately, however I think its because of the cold.

 

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