Hi guys,

I have noticed with my 2000 tl (with 75K miles) that the front end has been having increased shaking/vibration between 60-80 mph in the last 3K miles. I have also noticed an increase roar, almost like an out of round tire. My rotors/pads are 13K old, tires are 15K old. I took the car to les schawb (where tires were bought), they reblanced all tires and said that the tires were cupping (front), and the 2 front struts were leaking, $1100 est to fix (4 struts with allignment).

I have been looking arround town for decent struts, but everyone seems to only have monroe sensa trac or simmular. I commute 400 miles a week, and need car done asap. I would take my purchased struts to a local shop and install, save a few bucks or old les shawab?

What route would you guys go?

thanks,
Jason

 

I would order shocks from one of our vendors or from tirerack.

 

Hi guys,

The more I think about it, do I take as the gospel what the les shawb tech thinks. The care passess the "bounce test", and I don't notice any leaks on the concrete. As I look up in the wheel wells, I can't really see the leak.

Also, how hard is it to change out myself, and what tools would I need. Front or rear harder? How much time am I looking at? Is a allignment really needed after the struts are installed?

Thanks,
Jason

 

Its a bit of a job for someone with basic skills-4-5 hours total labor if first time
Can be done as long as your careful, and have a shop install the springs over to the new shock/strut --thats the really dangerous part-the springs must be compressed with a special tool and then the bolt removed- parts transferred and tightened- then release compression/tension on the springs
CAN result in serious injury requiring trip to ER with chest impact injury, and or loss of front teeth- just ask around here!

Hows that new 2500$ smile doing anyway MK??

You need to look closely at the strut bodyitself for the oil leak , its a small amount but the shocks dont hold much
Cupped tires USUALLY mean worn struts/shocks
The rears are harder because the back seat has to come out.

Look in phone book for acura/honda specialty shop for best install - ask them what shocks they use. Schwabb is not the place I would let even do my alignment! didnt like their attitude of-- leave it for the afternoon and we will get it in, when I have a lowered car and needed to speak with the tech about camber setting being over normal limit- or they would stop and try to sell me camber kits for twice the price,,, and I dont need them