Struts

[FoozGrind]

Hi. I have 121K on my 2008 4runner. Should I replace the struts? I also have a 1 inch spacer level kit. The store wants to charge me 650 to get them installed... I was hoping to find them online and bring it to them. Do you guys recommend changing them? If so any suggestions on what kind?

Thanks

 

[CruzadoBlanco]

its not a bad idea to replace them at that mileage. you could go with the monroe quick struts which have a new spring and are fully assembled. ive heard really good things about them. or you can get bilsteins and have the current springs put on them allowing you to ditch the spacer since they are adjustable. but at that mileage i would suggest doing the coil springs as well but ymmv.

 

[FoozGrind]

I know nothing about struts... So struts have springs in them? Do they all have coil springs? I am fine keeping the spacer since I bought them anyhow...

 

[CruzadoBlanco]

I know nothing about struts... So struts have springs in them? Do they all have coil springs? I am fine keeping the spacer since I bought them anyhow...

most replacement struts will not have the spring. they expect you to either swap your original springs over or use new ones. so you have to disassemble your original strut and then assemble the new one. thats the good thing about the monroe quick strut is its already fully assembled and ready to install. if you choose to go with another company or get the adjust able bilsteins i would recommend getting new coilsprings from say rockauto.com where you can get the front spring for a FJ or tacoma and it will help to level the front end since those springs have a higher spring rate and are able to hold more weight. the benefit of that is it help prevent the front from bottoming out and nose diving while stopping.

 

[FoozGrind]

I can basically just go get

Amazon.com: Monroe 171371L Monroe Quick-Strut Complete Strut Assembly: Automotive

For the right and left and then they just install it with my spacer on top like before? This seems to be the easiest thing to do. I have never had a car with 121K on it before so what would I notice if I needed struts anyhow? I mean my runner rides nice I think though I had it since 2008 so I am use to it.

What about rear shocks? Should I replace those as well?

 

[CruzadoBlanco]

yes that exactly how it would go. the signs of failing struts are excessive spring reverb (bouncing over bumps). a "hissing"/"slushing" sound when they cycle, added body roll and poor handling along with possible bottoming out over bumps and more nose dive while stopping. if you get down and look at them you could possibly spot leaking hydraulic fluid if they are leaking, but its not a definite.

 

[nasdamus]

Last week i bought the Monroe Quick-Strut's for the front and the OESpectrum (37270) for the rears. Got them everything through RockAuto for $300 shipped, plus there's a $90 mail in rebate on them. Will be installing this weekend.