2002 GLE Strut Replacement Advice

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10-24-2012, 09:38 PM

vekeller

Newbie - Just Registered

Thread Starter

Join Date: May 2009

Location: DFW, TX, USA

Posts: 1

2002 GLE Strut Replacement Advice

Hi,

I've got a 2002 GLE that I have had since I bought it new way back in May of that year. I love it and plan to drive it for many years to come. It's got about 145K miles on it and it's definitely in need of something to help with the ride. My brother says struts. So - if that's the case.... what do I need to buy? I liked the ride it originally had so something close to that is fine. I've been looking but it's hard to discern what I need. It's been riding more and more boat like and I want to find the best parts and have someone install them.

Thanks!
Ginny

10-25-2012, 05:27 AM

UGAd13

Senior Member

Join Date: Apr 2004

Location: Atlanta

Posts: 1,861

http://forums.maxima.org/5th-generat...on-thread.html

everything you ever wanted to know.

Here's my post and response to help.

Quote:

Originally Posted by UGAd13

Alright... after reading through a bunch of threads I think I have what I need for a little upgrade/maint on my suspension. But I have a couple of questions...

2003 GLE w/ 140,000. Car rides fine currently - no noises but it's becoming a little soft especially with passengers in the rear. Current set up is H&R springs (installed around 40k - I think) and HP Blues (installed around 60k - I think). All other component parts are original. I replaced the springs & shocks myself the 1st go around using basic hand tools at my house and I’ll do the same with this install.

90% of my driving is to/from work in rush hour so I’m just looking to firm up the ride a bit. I don’t drive aggressive anymore so I’m not looking for major handling upgrades. I haven’t inspected the component parts yet, but I figured I’d go ahead and replace some of the worn items while I have everything apart.

So…. here’s my parts list (format looks better in excel):

To Do / MFG / Description / Quantity / Price / Total Price / Part #
Replace Front Strut KYB GR-2 Front Right 1 94.79 94.79 334366
Replace Front Strut KYB GR-2 Front Left 1 94.79 94.79 334367
Replace Rear Shocks KYB GR-2 Left/Right 2 66.79 133.58 341341
Replace Front Dust Boots OEM "BUMPER ASSY-BOUND" 2 14.75 29.50 54050-A33B002
Replace Rear Dust Boots OEM "BUMPER ASSY-BOUND" 2 34.23 68.46 55240-A33B004
Replace Front Strut Mounts Moog Left/Right 2 34.79 69.58 K90655
Replace Front Sway Bar End Link Moog Right 1 13.21 13.21 K90431
Replace Front Sway Bar End Link Moog Left 1 13.21 13.21 K90432
Replace Front Sway Bar Bushings Energy Suspension 22mm (sold in pairs) 1 20.00 20.00 7.5124G
TOTAL = $537.12

1) Do I really need OEM dust boots or will aftermarket work? 35/piece for the OEM rears is expensive.
2) RE: sway bar bushings – greased or non-greased? The greaseable set w/ bracket (Part Number: 9.5158G) is a few dollars more than just replacements. Should I get the whole set with bracket or will just the bushing suffice?
3) Am I missing anything?

Quote:

Originally Posted by djfrestyl

Well, this is a FANTASTIC post.

1. Yes. This is the ONE part where it's worth to get OEM.
2. Bushing only is good enough. Save the few dollars here.
3. Nope! You sir, are good to go. Part numbers are all accurate.

/thread

10-25-2012, 08:36 AM

noahrexion

Member

Join Date: Oct 2004

Posts: 175

Ginny,

The above is actually a really great thread to check out.

However the GR-2 is now called the Excel G. This is KYB's OEM replacement twin tube shock - feels (to me) identical to OEM.

I've used these on many applications and always been satisfied (as a stock replacement). As, yet another, random internet forum user I would highly recommend the KYB Excel G to you as a replacement.