So i blew the suspension on my 96 SE and ive narrowed down my replacements to two choices but i need help choosing which is best.
Tokico Illuminas + Tein S-Tech springs = $713.23 +/-
Tokico Illumina Kit (includes Tokico springs) = $587.84 +/-

Is there going to be a noticeable difference in ride between the S-Techs and the Tokico springs that come w/ the kit?
Also, im looking at this as a DIY project. assuming i had the necessary tools, is this something an amature mechanic could do, not having any suspension experience?
Also, if anyone here can get those parts cheaper, let me know!

 

Go with the Tokico Illumina Kit. There isn't as much of a drop, but I'm sure the ride will be better because there's more spring travel.

 

I don't kno much about the specific parts you've asked about, but I was in the same boat as you are a couple weeks ago. I had never done any suspension work and i replaced all 4 struts with no problem. You'll need to buy or rent a spring compressor (a local auto parts store should have it for rent). There's a couple how-to's in the stickies, and with that info you shouldn't have any problems. Just take ur time compressing the springs and do it evenly, and enjoy the money saved.

 

 

Go with the Tokico Kit, you'll be happy you did.

 

you might as well replace as many bushings with ES or something since you'll have everything mostly apart anyway.

 

I'd go with Tokico Struts and H&R Springs. Same ride as OEM SE. And looks better.

 

Where did u see the Illumina kit for $587.84?

 

This job wasn't too bad when I did it a year ago. I did recruit a helper so it went a little better. The only hitch was one bolt wouldn't come off so I had to take it to the shop to air tool it loose. $5.

Replace all the bushings while you are at it. I believe the bump stops came with the Illuminas so you wont have to buy them.

Here is a part list.

CourtesyParts.com 1.800.527.1909 or 1.972.644.3942

54325-A3201 [FRONT] Strut Bearing 1995-1999 Maxima $27.60
54034-A3201 [FRONT] Lower Spring Sleeve 1995-1999 Maxima $7.55
54034-A3202 [FRONT] Middle Spring Sleeve 1995-1999 Maxima $10.87
54034-A3203 [FRONT] Upper Spring Sleeve 1995-1999 Maxima $10.56
54329-A3201 [FRONT] Upper Spacer Gasket 1995-1999 Maxima $8.32
54050-A3201 [FRONT] Dust Boot/Bump Stop Assembly GXE/GLE 1995-1999 Maxima
$12.31
54050-A3202 [FRONT] Dust Boot/Bump Stop Assembly SE ONLY 1995-1999 Maxima
$12.31
55034-A3201 [REAR] Upper Spring Seat Insulator 1995-1999 Maxima $9.40
56217-A3201 [REAR] Upper Bushing 1995-1999 Maxima $2.12
56218-A3201 [REAR] Lower Bushing 1995-1999 Maxima $2.52
55031-A3201 [REAR] Spring Sleeve 1995-1999 Maxima $5.70
55338-A3201 [REAR] Upper Spacer Gasket 1995-1999 Maxima $17.14
55240-A3201 [REAR] Dust Boot And Bump Stop Assembly 1995-1999 Maxima $24.15

Total: $301.10