Has anyone installed KYB Strut-Plus units?

[by-tor]

I need to replace the worn out factory shocks in my 2004 SR5 4WD. I don't do any trail riding, and I'm not specifically looking for, or opposed to, any lift.

I'm thinking of going with the KYB Strut-Plus units (https://www.kyb.com/products/strut-plus/) as I've had great luck with KYB on previous vehicles (mostly motorcycles) in the past. They are reasonable at about $125 each, and certainly easier to install. They have matching rear shocks for about $45 each...

First, is there any reason NOT to go with these?

Second, since I'm replacing springs in the front, I want to replace them in the rear. Are factory Moog springs sufficient, or do I need to look for something else?

Thanks in advance!

 

[hinmo24t]

my ride has kyb suspension since i bought it, used, and they feel awesome and even lifted the front about 1" (check my started threads 'does my truck look stock height'.) they ride so well i have delayed installing my 5100/ome kit that is all ready and waiting with new wheels. i highly recommend them. one thing to note - i looked on amazon and see the strut kit, excel g by kyb and im not sure thats what i have. mine look like full length shocks and springs which i did see as another amazon option. funny coincidence though - i installed those excel g struts with epic engineering springs on my 05 wrx for a cupkit option as opposed to coilovers and the kyb setup felt really nice despite lowering a couple inches with the springs.

 

[Bumbo]

I don't have KYB on my 4Runner, but I recently changed all 4 shocks on my Acura using the KYB Excel-G series strut which is the same used in your kit.

So far so good, I really like it. It basically restored the car back to OE health and performance which is what I wanted.

It was inexpensive and highly recommended by others, glad I did it.

If you are not looking for anything other than a back to basics suspension refresh, I think its a safe bet.

Edit: Bilstein 5100 is pretty popular around here for those who want a lift, but the Bilstein 4600 is supposed to be their OE replacement shock for stock height refresh. Might be worth considering as well.

 

[hinmo24t]

I don't have KYB on my 4Runner, but I recently changed all 4 shocks on my Acura using the KYB Excel-G series strut which is the same used in your kit.

So far so good, I really like it. It basically restored the car back to OE health and performance which is what I wanted.

It was inexpensive and highly recommended by others, glad I did it.

If you are not looking for anything other than a back to basics suspension refresh, I think its a safe bet.

Edit: Bilstein 5100 is pretty popular around here for those who want a lift, but the Bilstein 4600 is supposed to be their OE replacement shock for stock height refresh. Might be worth considering as well.

and whichever ones are in my car - leveled the front which a lot of people might find useful.
perhaps ill take a look to get a model # for the OP- ive seen a decal on them before.

 

[TowMeOut]

Ditto....I put them on my wife's Sienna van and Honda Accord. Both were an easy swap and quick way to get all new bushings and such without having to fight to disassemble/reassemble the pack. Neither of these were "sport" vehicles but they seem to ride as good or better than stock and the sagging/alignment problems of course are gone.

 

[gaber6]

They are a little higher than stock. I got refreshed rear springs and basic shocks as well.
I added the daystar level kit and they sit slightly high comparatively. On a regular suspension, I bet they'd look good.

 

[ecally]

I put KYB strut-plus on the front of my 2008 SR5 a few years ago. They are larger in diameter than stock but fit fine. They gave me a firmer ride and raised the front end a bit. I’m very happy with them. About 25,000 miles on them.

 

[V8Man]

Yep got them on my 03 Sport. Stiffer ride than the XRES bigger diameter springs than stock. Lifted the sagging OE front end. Got them from RockAuto.

 

[by-tor]

Thanks for the info everyone. I have ordered front and rear's, now I just need to determine which springs to use in the rear.

Does anyone have experience with the Moog springs or the AC Delco one's? Any other suggestions than these two?

 

[Montego Murph]

I installed new Moog coil springs along with the same KYB's that you ordered.

I am having issues with one of the new rear shocks though. When I articulate a bit (like turning into a driveway with a bit of an approach) I hear a "wooooop" noise from the back. They have a 3 year warranty so I'll have to take care of that after winter.