Replacement Struts/Shocks

[Jack Bobaganoosh]

For all of you who have replaced them, what brand did you use and did you notice a difference in ride quality? If so, was it more sporty or floaty? Any other feedback would be appreciated.

[lightdyt]

No replys to this I would like to know as well because I'm getting ready to attempt this and need to know what the best ones are

[hufhouse]

I did the rear shocks early on (about 40,000 miles) because of some tire-cupping issues on the rear. I don't know what brand the shop used, but I was told that they were of better quality than the OEM. It solved the cupping issue.

I just recently did the struts (at about 100,000 miles). The biggest difference I see is when cornering. Previously, when turning, the van would roll toward the opposite front wheel. Now, it stays nice and upright through the turn. I didn't see a lot of difference in overall ride quality, though. I think the shop used your basic Monroe's, but I'm not sure.

[1999montana]

Originally Posted by lightdyt

No replys to this I would like to know as well because I'm getting ready to attempt this and need to know what the best ones are

You can't go wrong with Monroe® Sensa-Trac®. I did our van three plus years ago now at about 70,000 miles. I also inspected and repaired the sway bar as it was split around the 'eyes' where the sway bar link bushings and bolts attach.

The shocks are a nasty job, but not impossible. You have to remove the wiper arm linkage as a unit in order to get adequate access to the tops of each shock (three nuts on each shock).

There are bolts on either end of the wiper linkage that attach it to the body. Don't try to remove the arms from the steel bar they are attached to, I tried that and snapped the bolts off. Had to drill and tap new holes!

The only tool you'll need is a spring compressor. Use new shock mounts too.

Torque the top nut down to about 60lb/ft or use and impact and make sure the strut mount nut is properly seated.

[scherp]

I just did mine. I replaced them with Gabriel struts and shocks. On the quality of the Gabriel, I don't know.

I just removed the left side (passenger side) wiper arm. You can get to the three nuts on each strut mount easier if you have a long box end ratcheting wrenches. I then took my strut assembly to a local Precision tune and had them change the strut and mounting bracket. They charged $48 to do both of them.

Otherwise it is pretty easy. Long ratcheting box end wrenches would help a lot. Good luck