Front Suspension Support (Top Hat) question

[maxthebird]

Hi all. Im in the process of replacing my front shocks at 120,000 mi with new OEMs. Couldn't pass up the deal from Toyota that offered online and holiday discounts that made them cost less than Bilstein 4600's, which are suppose to be stiffer. I wanted to get back the original ride qualities I had when the truck was new. I'm planning on reusing the original top hat and trying to figure out what rubber bushings I need to replace. The OEM shocks come with the upper bushing but the one under the top hat is not included in any of the parts diagrams. It looks like it comes with the top hat. Is it the same as the top bushing or is it molded into the top hat and not replaceable. Thanks and Happy Holidays to all.

 

[rdruss]

Normally molded into top hat, but you could probably dig it out and replace. If those are original top hats you may want to replace them as they are probably rusted and the rubber bushing partially deteriorated anyway.

 

[3bears]

if your replacing springs and shocks, why not the top hats too. a previous one I did I used KYB top hats.

 

[FD7683]

Buy new KYB top hats and save the stress. Both top hats I bought from KYB came with the proper bushings when I replaced struts a couple months ago.

 

[Sarki]

Another vote for replacing the top hats.
Easy to replace and fairly low cost to buy

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[96RedRunner]

I'd make the call when you tear it down. The new parts your putting on are going to last 100k mi+
will old hat rubber last that 100k mi. Rubber about only thing that fubar's.

 

[maxthebird]

Decided to go with new OEM Toyota top hats because of the age and mileage. I want to keep it as original as possible as long as the parts are still available. Toyota wanted $90 each so went to Amayama Japan for $35 each plus shipping. Will save about $100. Parts should be in about 2 weeks. I looked at KYB and saw some bad reviews about the rubber bushings splitting. KYB is a good manufacturer so was surprised by it. Anyone have this issue?