What would be a good replacement front strut for 88 Max Wagon? I am thinking of getting the KYB GR-2 struts. Also who makes replacement OEM equivalent front coil springs for an 88 Maxima

Thanks
MattK

 

The KYB struts are by far the best way to go. You get plenty of performance from these struts, will still having a nice smooth ride. As for Coil springs, I don't know who makes OEM equivalent, but you may try places like carparts.com, or nopi. Heck you might even go to your local parts store for those.

Sarin

 

I've priced the OEM replacement style variable rate springs. They are all pricey, about $90 - $150, depending upon source, per spring...on the flip side of that, there are the ST performance/lowering springs, which can be purchased from JC-Whitney, for about $160 + shipping, for all four springs...although the list doesn't list a wagon, they do work...without modifications...

As for the struts, I'd also recommend the KYB's. When I did mine, I didn';t have the funds for the KYB's, so I got the cheapy Gabriels, at Autozone, just so I could make the car road-worthy. The rear struts were so bad that the rear woul litterally hop it's way around corners...not a good thought when we're facing icy winter driving, so I got the first set I could afford...the front were so bad that when I pulled the right one out, removed the spring, and turned it upside down, then right side up, the piston would just fall , clunking loudly when it bottomed out...there was no oil or anything left in the struts...and from what was stamped on them, they were either the originals, or were replaced with OEM Nissan struts...the car had 220k on it when I changed them...

I know my springs are a little loose, so when money permits, I'm getting the ST springs, and the KYB's...and I'll fabricate a FSTB, also...

 

Thanks for the info. I can't find a source for any OEM spring. What was your source for the OEm variable rate spring pricing?
My home page has pics of some restoration I did for this wagon if your interested.
Thanks

Matt