1992 Park Avenue strut recommendation!

Cntrysthbst · 11-14-2005, 12:39 AM

Monroe has a new strut out called the reflex! I've always used the sensa-trac! My front right strut is bad, so both fronts will be replaced @ the same time. Now, has anyone tried the reflex yet and/or does it even make a difference between the two?

Also, I normally replace the strut mounts when replacing struts, so the only other thing left to deal with when switching them are the springs! I see no cracks, or rust on them, you can clean them up and they'd look brand new but they can still be weak, any testing I can do myself on them? if not, how many miles can I push out of them before replacing? And as long as both front springs are replaced @ the same time - can I put a heavy duty spring on? Do the backs need done @ the same time as well?

HotZ28 · 11-14-2005, 10:23 AM

First, if you currently have Monroe struts on the car they have a lifetime warranty. If you go to a Monroe dealer, like Pep Boys, they should give you credit for a new strut, however, labor is not covered nor would the other strut unless it is also bad. I also use the Sensa-Trac front and rear and have been happy with the ride.

I don't think the cost difference would justify the difference in the ride & handling. I could be wrong, since I have not used the Reflex.

Springs are a matter of personal choice, I have 175K on mine without replacement and they do not sag or show any signs of giving up. I would not think you need springs, unless the car is sagging. (Lower than when new).

I replaced all of my struts at the same time. The rears were ALC (auto level control) however, I had a bad compressor, so I installed a manual fill kit (Monroe AK-29) and set it once and have not had to add or remove any air since. I run about 22 psi in the rear.

Cntrysthbst · 11-14-2005, 05:50 PM

Sounds good, thanks! I'm glad you brought up the manual kits for the air shocks in the back. Comp. works good, and shocks are new, but I hear if the manual kits are installed, and set correctly, it will handle better (not as floaty), is that true? I'd like to give it a shot if its worth doing! Thanks again! Rob

HotZ28 · 11-14-2005, 06:47 PM

The ALC control is based on load. I.e. Weight in trunk or back seat. It therefore will maintain the same level, regardless of load.

With the manual control, you can set the level where you want for best ride or handling, or weight. You can soften or stiffen, raise and lower to your own satisfaction!

vincynick · 11-23-2005, 02:29 PM

Will these work for a 96 PA as well?

-- Nick

Quote:

Originally Posted by HotZ28

The ALC control is based on load. I.e. Weight in trunk or back seat. It therefore will maintain the same level, regardless of load.

With the manual control, you can set the level where you want for best ride or handling, or weight. You can soften or stiffen, raise and lower to your own satisfaction!

HotZ28 · 11-23-2005, 02:44 PM

Everything is the same for the 1996.

Cntrysthbst · 11-25-2005, 08:33 PM

That is just to funny! ( Your picture of course ) Thanks for all your help!

Cntrysthbst · 12-08-2005, 08:41 AM

I put the new Reflex struts on my car and notice no difference between the Reflex and Sensa-trac, I believe they are equal in ride and comfort. I say the Reflex are not worth the extra money - why? I'll tell ya, I believe they took the Sensa-trac struts out of there boxes and put them into the new Reflex boxes and charged me almost a hundred buks more for the set. For great ride and control, and a good deal, I believe the Sensa-trac is the way to go. Thanks all!

Loekee75 · 12-08-2005, 12:09 PM

Thanks Cntrysthbst!
My 92s greatly overdue some new shocks/ struts, and I'll know to use the sensa trac now.

HotZ28 · 12-08-2005, 06:31 PM

Hey Rob, thanks for the feedback, that confirms my suspicion concerning the reflex vs. Sensa-Trac. It was great to here from someone who has used both and was willing to be the "Ginny pig" for the benefit of others who may have the same indecision concerning purchasing struts. I also considered the reflex when I purchased my Sensa-Tracs, however, in my mind; I could not justify the cost difference and chose to go with a well known and tested strut. I have never heard any negative response from those who have installed the Sensa-Trac.

By the way, what are you doing, rebuilding the whole car? You must have more time and money than I do!!

Loekee75 · 12-09-2005, 07:38 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by HotZ28

Hey Rob, thanks for the feedback, that confirms my suspicion concerning the reflex vs. Sensa-Trac. It was great to here from someone who has used both and was willing to be the "Ginny pig" for the benefit of others who may have the same indecision concerning purchasing struts. I also considered the reflex when I purchased my Sensa-Tracs, however, in my mind; I could not justify the cost difference and chose to go with a well known and tested strut. I have never heard any negative response from those who have installed the Sensa-Trac.

By the way, what are you doing, rebuilding the whole car? You must have more time and money than I do!!

Hey Hotz28, I think that now that most of our PAs have reached that 10+ yr old stage, we're all rebuilding them!.....at least that's what they tell me at autozone after they enter my name in the computer

HotZ28 · 12-09-2005, 10:31 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Loekee75

Hey Hotz28, I think that now that most of our PAs have reached that 10+ yr old stage, we're all rebuilding them!.....at least that's what they tell me at autozone after they enter my name in the computer

Loekee75, I guess you are right about the rebuilding process. Mine is a work in progress. As soon as I have everything like I want it, other opportunities seem to arise. My next project will be a new AC compressor & drier to get it ready for next spring.
Sure beats the heck out of car payments though!!

POST REPLY TO THIS THREAD