I'm lowering my 95 SE with 102,000 miles. I currently have Tokico blues with the stock springs (62,000 on the rears, 20,000 on the front struts.) I'm replacing my OEM springs with B&G's, which are reported to ride more like H&R's. I have one of two choices -- either use the existing Tokicos OR replace them.

I don't need the external adjustability of the AGX's, so I'm considering the GR-2's only.

Does anybody have any experience with using Tokico or GR-2's with H&R's or similar springs. GR-2s are considered an OEM replacement but are said to be firmer and more controlled than the OEM SE struts/springs. The Tokicos have been reported to weaken quickly.

Any recommendations or thoughts?

 

I have the Apex springs on my car. I believe they have the same drop as the B&Gs (1.6")? Anyway, coming to the struts. I've been using the GR-2s for about 6 months now, and I can say I havent had any problems with them. But as a reminder, dont forget to get your wheels aligned after the first couple of weeks once the struts go in. During that period driving 'MAY' be a little wierd. Lets just say my car wouldnt go in a straight line But once the alignment was done, it was a whole new story. I know that the car is going to be glued to the ground a lot more than what it could, when it was stock. The ride is a little harsh, but not that bad. But its definitely a wise investment.

 

Shadygrey is running H&R and GR2's I've spoke to him and he's had the struts for a while and says the ride is nice. No problems at all. I'm probably going with the GR2's this Spring.

 

I say that because my car drives like crap right now. I've had them on for almost 2 years now (approx. 40k miles). I'm trying to find my receipt so I can get them replaced for free. If I can't, I'll probably get the KYB GR2s.

 

You and me both! I have had the Blues for about a year and they are pathetic. No rebound or jounce control with H&Rs. My car porpoises all over the road. Can't wait to replace them.

My recommendation after lowering 2 cars with new shocks, ALWAYS BUY ADJUSTABLE. You can always tailor your ride to the way you like it. If not, YOU MAY BE STUCK with a ride you don't like!

PM
95SE

 

KYB GR-2's all the way. I referred them over the Tokico's to several people and they love them. I have mine on for over a year and they're still riding firm, and that's with Intrax Springs.

 

if you think you're saving money you're probably wasting it on both routes! i made an even bigger mistake by buying a set of used tokico's from someone. trust me, as someone who has paid litterally 3x more than expected to set up a suspension properly! i just ordered my AGXs yesterday. go all out on your suspension! unless you plan to take it apart more often than expected! inspect all suspension parts while it's disassembled. replace all the rubber insulator parts (so you don't the extremely annoying noise and headache that i got) ie "rebounders," boots, top bushings etc. go all out and buy top quality.

 

can someone expand on the adjustability of the kyb agx struts? can you adjust the ride height? or just how tight you want the dampening to be?

 

Which ones are softer? Tokico Blues or KYB? I'd like the softest ride possible. Thanks.

 

Tokico, after 10k miles of use. That's usually about the time it goes bad. I've only experienced Tokico and nothing else so far.

 

i also have the apex/tokico set up. i love the apex but hate my tokico. i will be getting the agx soon.

 

might as well replace them.
might blow like mine did and im in process of ordering the new kyb's, so just do it or it will be an expensive mistake.

 

Folks,

Tokico Blues do not give you a "soft" ride. They give you a ride that is not controlled and one which vibrates over simple road imperfections. You will not feel in control, especially at highway speeds.

Spend the little extra $$$ and get adjustable because you can always find you favorite setting and leave it there. If you don't have adjustables, you'll either be happy with your ride or wishing the whole time you spent a little more for happiness.

PM
95SE
H&R w/ Tokicos (not a happy camper, saving for KYB AGX)

 

Ok so which are better and softer on their softest setting, Koni or KYB AGX???

 

as someone who also made a big mistake the first time and then some i second petemoe's statement!!!! get the best right away and do it right the first time!

 

My car started life as a GXE and then I went to coilovers and now I'm running SE springs with KYB GR-2 struts.

The GR's are very nice riding and control the car well enough in the cornering. Its not rock hard stiff but not overly soft either. The GR-2s are worlds apart from the Tokiko Blues.

My guess is that the rear GR-2s are comparable in firmness to a moderately adjusted Koni. Maybe the fronts might be comparable to a Koni at a mild setting.

 

I just installed the tokicos/H&R's and the ride is fine. I don't know what you people are whining about with "car is all over the road." I have NO problem controlling the car over bumps, at high speeds, etc. The car handles fine, and the ride is just a little stiffer than the stock SE, but not bad. If you are having problems controlling the car, check your tire wear/alignment; and perhaps you are using the wrong tires for the road surfaces you are encountering. I am using tires that don't "look" good, but are meant for more than just summer driving.

 

You'll see what we mean. By next summer, when the temps go higher, the performance of the shocks will degrade and you'll be porpoising down the road like the rest of us.

PM

 

give it sometime and you will see. you have one thing helping you is that you are using h&r springs which doesn't lower your car much. i felt the same way when i put my tokico in and now about 8 or 9 months later they s*ck.

 

eh, we'll see. I know someone who has no troubles with them with the same setup I have, and he's had them a long time coughmedicsoniccough.