I have 106K on my 2002 Maxima and it was time for some new struts and top hats (never been changed). I figured since I needed new struts, I might as well look into lowering the car a bit. I didn't want to break the bank and wanted something as close to stock as possible. I read the reviews on this site.

http://www.shiftice.com/spring_strut_decision.html

My first choice was KYB struts with a set of Eibach springs but I went with Maxspeed just because they were on eBay for $35 shipped. I read mixed reviews and was a little concerned about Maxspeed springs, but for $35 bucks, I gave it a shot. The KYB/Maxspeed combo feels stock with the exception of better handling on winding roads. I'm very happy with the combo and so far so good. Below are the links of the setup I purchased. For the rear struts, I used the stock bump stops and the metal washers from the OEM setup but the rest was KYB.



http://www.ebay.com/itm/LOWERING-SPR...9W~bFZ&vxp=mtr

http://www.ebay.com/itm/151325672876?_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT

 

for nestor:

 

Sorry to hear that you used KYB.

Can't wait until the "I just replaced my suspension and I'm getting all sorts of weird noises!" thread


....should have searched and read first.

https://maxima.org/forums/5th-genera...on-thread.html

 

pics are coming


KYB for struts or top hats?

 

Strut mounts and dustboots.

 

Before

 

After, not that noticeable.

 

Looks great.

 

How much of a drop was it?

 

Maxspeed 1.4F 1.3R

 

Nice job! Glad to see another successful DIY

 

Needs moAr low

I can actually say that now.

 

I agree. People wouldn't think it was lowered unless I mentioned it.

 

I though you said KYB and H&R springs were good combination? is KYB ****e now like the rest of the brands?

EDIT: after 3 weeks my H&R 1.4F and 1.3R and have actually only drop .45" on the front.

 

See post #5. KYB struts are still fantastic. Their mounts and boots are still crap.

 

I kept the OEM mounts incase I run into issues. Thanks djfrestyl for the info.

 

I would've spent roughly $100 more to get coilovers.. Truhart, Godspeed and Tein SA are all under $700 shipped.

 

Some people prefer the longevity and the 'set and forget' nature of springs/struts over coilovers. Everyone is entitled to their own requirements.

 

ah-ha!!!

 

 

Nice work enterconnect


But I agree with yoda and can't wait for reviews on the springs