lexusben

iTrader: (3)

Hello guys. I haven't been on here for a while. My 98 GS 400 has hit 186,000 miles and she is starting to squeak and creak a bit over every small imperfection in the road. I have replaced most of the front suspension components in the past. However, I have not replaced the shocks.

I am looking at going for Bilstein SP's or KYB GR-2s. The cheapest price I have found on the Bilsteins is $500 while I have seen the KYBs listed for $320. Do you guys think that the Bilsteins are $180 better than the KYBs?

Also, if you have replaced the shocks did you also replace the shock mounts or any other related hardware?

Thank you in advance.

lexusben

iTrader: (3)

So I decided to go with the Bilstein shocks. However, I am not sure if I will need to replace the shock mounts. Can anyone with Bilstein shock experience chime in?

The other thing I have run into is that Lexus sells a shock mount per side (http://lexus.sewellparts.com/oem-cat...S400-1998.html 48603 and 48609). MOOG and other aftermarket sell a shock mount that works for both sides. Any idea why this might be?

lexusben

iTrader: (3)

Another update. I sent an email out to a few Lexus shops and they all recommended that I replace the front strut mounts. I went ahead and bought 2 new front strut mounts that will be installed with the Bilsteins. I asked about the rear strut mounts and I was told by one technician that they never replace those. I may buy the rear strut mounts anyways since it is only $50 for both sides. The parts are plastic/ rubber so I am sure there has been some amount of deterioration after 15 years in Ohio weather.

lexusben

iTrader: (3)

Another update. I now have the Bilstein Shocks, new front upper strut mounts and I some other rubber shock related parts from Sewell. So now, in addition to the shocks, I have the following:





If anyone has installed Bilstein shocks and they know of any obstacles that I may run into please let me know. Bilstein did include some hardware with the shocks. I am not sure exactly where it goes yet.