cust0mx

I went to Les Schwab today to get my brakes checked out. They said everything looks fine, but that one of my struts was leaking and they suggested that I get them replaced. My TL has 92k on it and the struts have never been replaced. I got a quote of $810 to replace all 4. Is this within reason? I found the DIY thread in the garage on how to replace struts, but is this something that a mechanical newb like myself could probably do, or is it best to leave it to a mechanic?

If I get new struts, is it possible to drop the car 1-1.5, or will I need some other parts? Thanks

One more thing, what brand do you recommend for the struts?

Timb227

iTrader: (3)

All I know is $810 is WAY too much. Install for springs and shocks should be no more than $200.

images

iTrader: (2)

for 810 you can get springs AND shocks, and yes, you can slightly drop your car or completely slam it. for a little bit more you can get a full coilover set up, which is recommended by most on this forum.

in conclusion DO NOT SPEND 810 dollars on stock shocks alone, you can get much more for your money

cust0mx

Can you guys recommend springs and shocks that won't break the bank? I was relieved to hear I wouldn't need brakes, but shocked at $800 for struts

AMUA6

iTrader: (7)

Check out the Koni Neuspeed Sport Cup Kit or whatever it is at Heeltoe. It comes with shocks and springs to lower your car, all for around ~$610. Any indy shop will install this setup for around $200.

blurryTL04

you can get a full coilover set up from $650 maybe less, what area are you in?

cust0mx

Seattle

lightjak_tsx

nice

blurryTL04

did you want me to get a quote from my buddy who works at http://www.pannauto.com/ for some blackworks racing coilovers?

cust0mx

If you don't mind I'd appreciate it

cust0mx

You think he can get them for less than $650? Saw some on Ebay for that much brand new

blurryTL04

i will see him tomorrow. I will let you know, i'm pretty sure he can.

Turbonut

iTrader: (1)

IMHO don't bother with the lowered assemblies as, depending on the drop, you'll have camber problems, need camber kits and if you don't you'll wear the tires out quickly, not to mention the deterioration in ride quality.

Remembered this, inexpensive and just the top hats needed:
https://acurazine.com/forums/car-parts-sale-361/3g-tl-oem-front-rear-shock-assemblies-787330/

Your choice.

cust0mx

Are the shock assemblies the same thing as struts?

Turbonut

iTrader: (1)

We have shock absorbers on the TL.

I hate cars

Tl does not use struts. If it did you would be looking at $1,000+.

cust0mx

So when the mechanic told me that one strut was leaking, he meant shock absorber? Will this shock assembly be a suitable replacement? https://acurazine.com/forums/showthread.php?t=787330

I hate cars

Yep. Those would be perfect. I don't know what year you have but keep in mind those '04-'06 units are just a little stiffer than the '07-'08 units. You don't need the whole spring/shock assembly but the good thing is with the entire assembly you can do it yourself without any special tools like a spring compressor. It's extremely easy when they're together like that.

cust0mx

Thanks a lot. You think it would be easy to install, even for a mechanical newb like myself?

Turbonut

iTrader: (1)

I certainly wouldn't call it an easy install if not accustomed to this tyoe of work, or even minor mechanical work. You'll need a spring compressor that can be rented from the local AZ, various tools, jack stands and jack. Get a manual and do some reading and be careful.

Overview from the 3G garage:
https://acurazine.com/forums/3g-tl-problems-fixes-114/torque-spec-shock-assembly-3g-garage-d-091-a-633039/
https://acurazine.com/forums/3g-tl-tires-wheels-suspension-97/installed-spec-suspension-today-review-install-notes-pics-inside-573739/
https://acurazine.com/forums/3g-tl-tires-wheels-suspension-97/%2A%2Adiy%2A%2A-tein-basic-coilover-install-%2A%2Apics%2A%2A-3g-garage-d-022-a-617782/

Check around to see what various shops might charge to do the change if you bring in the assemblies, you're only starting at $175 for the parts.

I hate cars

That's the good thing about buying the whole assembly like his link. No spring compressor is needed. You literally unbold the old ones and bolt up the new ones.

Turbonut

iTrader: (1)

Matt, no top hat on the assemblies listed in the Black Market, so without a spring compressor you had better be pretty strong.
https://acurazine.com/forums/showthread.php?t=787330

I hate cars

LOL. I'm going to have to stop posting around here. I looked at the pictures and didn't notice the top hats. Too much overtime I guess. I've been like a walking zombie for the past 2 weeks.

cust0mx

Is it possible to use the top hats that are on the springs that I currently have, or do I need to purchase new ones for some reason?

I hate cars

Your existing ones are fine. The downside is that you need a spring compressor to install them.