Figured I'd make this a seperate thread from the tune-up issue, as the parts are not related. So, at nearly 100K, the I35 is also in need of new struts. A few questions:

1. What brand was used from the factory? (if known)
2. I've always been tempted by KYB GR2s, but afraid of being the "1 out of 10 peeps" who gets a crappy ride out of them. Are they worth it, or are there better aftermarket choices?
3. Are there any recommended parts that should be changed at the same time, such as strut mounts, bushings, etc? If so, would aftermarket parts like poly bushings, make the ride too harsh?

I should add that my goal is NOT to make it into a track car. I'm looking to maintain/slightly improve the handling, and I'm especially interested in replacing parts that may be worn out with longer lasting solutions (i.e.-p[oly bushings)

Thanks!

 

1. Tokico
2. I didn't like the GR-2s when I had them. That's just me. I love Tokico illuminas. They're even great on stock springs.
3. Just replace everything when you do the struts. Strut mounts, strut bearings, bumpstops and boots. Doesn't cost that much more and make more sense to do it all at once than have to re-do a couple thousand miles later.

 

Thanks for the feedback! I have a source that can get me a good deal on Monroe Sensa-Tracs. Are these any good on our cars? (again, assuming a stock setup)

 

I have those and they worked okay when brand new but got really soft and lost dampening only after a few months. Save your money for something better, which is basically anything out there. I'm buying Tokicos and throwing my Monroes in the trash.

 

No, he just wants better handling.

 

Yep. I guess they'd be okay for an economy car or a Buick, but they leave a lot to be desired on this car. I guess you get what you pay for.

 

Well, I figure at almost 100k, the struts are probably shot, though I admit my ride quality isn't THAT bad (yet).

I figured the Monroes were a bad fit here, but wanted to throw that out there and see what others thought.

One other random thought: Do bolt-ons like sway bars or STBs make a huge difference for the 5.5 gens? I know they made a huge improvement on both my tC and my Chevy, but the I handles pretty well already...

 

A rear sway bar will make a huge difference. On these cars, best mod for the money hands down.

 

I just put on the KYB G2R's kept the stock springs.. WOW huge difference i must say soo smooth.. i am very impressed with these struts.

 

Sorry to bring up my own old thread, but I figured that was better than doing a new thread.

I'm about to pull the trigger on the struts, and I am torn between the KYBs and the Tokicos. Which one is the better bang for the buck?