In doing some research here I've found that OEM (or Moog) are the way to go for replacing front shock mounts when moving to aftermarket. However, I'm finding conflicting information about the rear. I've seen posts saying that the rears rarely need replacing and that they are different/stronger somehow and others saying they used the KYB ones (even though they are considered garbage for the fronts).

So what's the scoop here.
-Is OEM still the way to go for rear shock mounts, like fronts?
-Is it true they rarely go bad and that I may not need them at all? (120k)

 

Just replaced my suspension with 120k. Bought rear shock mounts, but didn't need them. It's crazy how well they hold up. Pull one off, you'll see. It takes about 10 minutes to remove one side. No biggie.

 

^That's true for the rear, for the front it's not so easy.

Are they worn or are you looking because you're interested in getting TEIN SS and want to replace them at the same time?

 

Thanks nelledge I'll take a look before I order since it appears to be a quick thing. If they look good, I'll save a few bucks which I'll need if I go the coilover route.

I'm not sure if mine are worn but my mechanic seemed sure they would be, but he didn't specify front/back. At this point I'm just trying to gather parts for either a shock/spring upgrade or coilovers pending a few other things. I'm hoping I can get the TEIN set a local guy has but the more I talk to him the more I think they are damaged beyond repair. I can't justify a new set with other expenses I have so I'll see what happens.

Thanks for the input guys!

 

The front is easy. The rear is a pain in the ***. I couldn't get a socket on one of the nuts without taking out several bolts from behind the seat and prying on that stupid cover thing that goes over the top of the mount.

 

Hmm...well I'll give it a shot down in the garage but if it becomes a pain I may just wing it and hope mine are in good shape. Worst case I leave it at the shop an extra day while we get the OEM rears.

 

I thought you need spring compressors to disassemble the front, and they weren't necessary in the rear?
I haven't done it so I'll just shush on it, that's just from what I remember reading, it's cloudy.

 

I suggested removing the rear to look at the mounts. No need for a spring compressor just to visually check them. I don't understand why people have a hard time with the rear. (No homo) Besides wedging yourself in the trunk, it's pretty straight forward. Two nuts on top and one bolt at the bottom. Use a 1/4" ratchet with extension and you should be able to access the top nuts fairly easy after you have the side trim pulled out of the way.

As for the front mounts, I would replace them regardless. The bearing at the very least.

 

You sir, did not use the correct extension for your socket. I've NEVER removed the shroud except once when I dropped a nut down there

You don't need compressors to remove the assembly.

This guy knows what he's talking about

...but if I were replacing bearings, I would replace the mount with it. When you buy Moog's they come with it, so why not.



If you're going the spring/strut route, don't forget about dustboots. Use OEM only. Dustboots are a better 'investment' over rear mounts.

 

Disassemble, not 'remove assembly'. of course you don't need compressors just to take it out.
Thanks for clarifying this for the OP though.

Yup, I absolutely agree. It would be silly to replace only the bearing.

 

Meh, even this is arguable. I often disassemble without spring compressors

But do NOT try this unless you know what you're doing.

 

For the front? You're a taletned or very brave man.

That's kind of what I was insinuating for the rear, cause the springs aren't as tight you can get away without spring compressors for disassembly. I wouldn't recommend it though.

 

Ya, for all 4. The trick is to keep a controlled environment. Both front and rear are under preload though, and I don't recommend doing any of them this way unless you know what you're doing.

 

I'll just go buy a spring compressor use it and return it (I know, I'm so honest, .....
well I am! I'm telling you guys )

 

Why don't you just rent one for free from Oreilly's or Autozone? No ethics dilemmas that way.

 

Great info guys, much appreciated!

 

Autozone around here doesn't have them I've searched. The guy at Canadian Tire actually told me to do that last time I needed one. So I wasn't real torn up over it.