Jovinki

So, I replaced my original struts with the KYB Excel G's. I was not impressed with the rubber bushings that came with the new shocks, but I put them in anyway. Now I have clunking over bumps. Has anyone used these struts as factory replacements and has anyone experienced this new clunking. It's like a metal on metal clunk like the bushings aren't doing their job. I'm taking it back apart this weekend. I'm tempted to use the factory bushings that still look like they're in good shape. Does anyone have any ideas? Thanks, jb

This is in reference to the front struts. I'm not replacing the backs until I have this figured out. Thanks...

Wharbone

I don't have any experience with the KYB but I've always heard good things about them for a stock replacement.

Did you torque everything to spec with the suspension under load?

ExcelerateRep

Definitely make sure everything is torques to spec and installed properly. KYB makes pretty quality products, I doubt it's a bushing failing especially if it was just recently installed.

Jovinki

Tightened it under load until it was good and snug, but I didn't torque the top nut to any spec. How would you do that when you have to hold the shock in place with a wrench to keep it from spinning? I could have kept tightening it, but I didn't want to over do it. I just used a ratcheting wrench and went to town. I've done four vehicles before, but never a Honda product. What could I do differently to ensure that top nut is where it is supposed to be? Thanks for the replies!

ExcelerateRep

You should torque it with the vehicle on the ground.

KYB Americas | Shocks: Tightening the Upper Mounting Stud Nut

Jovinki

Thanks for the tips guys. I had already tightened them down while the car was on the ground. I just didn't put enough twist into it. This is the first time that I have done struts on a car. Always been Toyota trucks so I wasn't cranking enough. I was concerned about over compression but I went ahead and re-tightened the top nut after verifying everything was put together correctly and the clunk has gone away. Thanks again, guys!