Front Struts & Rear Shocks

[Guest LouZ]

I'm gonna replace the struts and shocks in one of my '90s, 3.0...

I can get Monroe from NAPA in 2 types, 1 is standard and the other has extra valving.~ or ~ Gabrieal from Carquest, ~ or ~ KYB from an internet auto parts supplier.

Do any of you guys have any knowledge or thoughtsof any preferences ???

[Bill Reichert]

NO Gabriels. I installed an HD set on a 87 Chrysler GTS with similar suspension and had to pull them off from getting seasick. I went back to the Mopars but that is not an option here. Mine have Monroe HD on and it seems good. Nice ride and doesn't float at highway speeds (*up to 90).

BTW the transmissions can be fixed better than original. I never had one of the electronic ones but the defects are fixable. Be sure to join TC America!!! Lots of good info.

[TwinCamFan]

I bought a set of the KYB's but when they arrived they were so soft (weak) that I could move the strut rods in and out with very little effort <img src="http://forums.aaca.org/images/graemlins/frown.gif" alt="" /> I ended up using some factory Heavy Duty stock struts from an 87 Shelby Daytona. I also replaced the TC springs with the HD Daytona units for some additonal cornering prowess <img src="http://forums.aaca.org/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" /> Add to that the Polybushings.com rear swaybar, the later model double pivot K frame (some 89 cars and all 90/91 cars already have this) and that car handles better than I could have hoped compared to the very first time I pitched it into a corner as purchased. <img src="http://forums.aaca.org/images/graemlins/crazy.gif" alt="" /> Next I am adding an aftermarket Panhard rod for the rear and a strut tower brace for the front. I think that should about cover what mods the suspension recieves...

Alan

[Guest StudeDude 01]

I recently replaced the front struts on my '89 & '90 with Monroe Sensatracs and the rear shocks with Gabriel Guardians. The ride and handling are much improved; I would recommend this combination without hesitation. The Sensatracs also come with the Strut Boots which is extra cost for some other struts. You should also replace the bearing mounts for the struts---cost about $25-30 each side. I purchased the Monroe's from Advance Auto (which also carries the KYB units you mentioned) and the Gabriel's ('89 Lebaron listing) from Auto Zone. Good luck with your cars.

[Bill Reichert]

Quote

I bought a set of the KYB's but when they arrived they were so soft (weak) that I could move the strut rods in and out with very little effort

End quote

shocks and struts lose the charge? when they sit on a shelf. When they are pumped a few times, the resistance builds up. ( I sold them for 20+ years)

[TwinCamFan]

Yeah they seem to get air bubbles mixed into the oil when they sit on their side, however 4-5 strokes is enough to tell you how they are going to behave-I went well beyond that <img src="http://forums.aaca.org/images/graemlins/smirk.gif" alt="" />

Alan