pbxcomm

Here I go with more Strut dilemmas .. The more I search, the more searching I need to do.
2008 GS 350 AWD, need struts no coilovers for me. I looked at one of the front struts (passenger side) and much to my surprise I see STAMPED ON THE STRUT : “KYB 48510-30782 G28R”.
I see a smart tag on the strut as well, got out my Blackberry and read the smart tag and here is
what can up : “48510-30783 TLA7 TLE7”.
So, I’m not the smartest guy in the world, but these have KYB all over the front struts with a Lexus P/N.
I was intrigued enough to send an email message to KYB.. The reply I received made sense then didn’t make sense. I must be missing something..Hello,I am in the discovery process of replacing all for shocks/struts on my 2008 Lexus GS 350, as they are leaking and I need of replacement as soon as possible. In my discovery process it appeared that KYB
are the original provider of struts for this vehicle. Please send me information on what KYB has to offer and what you would recommend including possible upgrades from existing struts (perhaps more forgiving ride).

1. Vehicle year, make & model:
   2008 Lexus GS 350 (AWD)
2. V6 2GR-FSE
   
3. Vehicle manufacture modifications (if any):
   NONE
4. Product Box Part Number:
   N/A
5. Product Stamping Number (old & new part):
   Existing (original) Front Strut Passenger Side:
   P/N : KYB 48510-30782 G28R
   Smart Tag (on Strut) : 48510-30783 TLA7 TLE7
   Thank you for your attention to my request.
   Here is their response:
   
   Hello,
6. Thank you for contacting KYB. We appreciate this opportunity to assist you. We are the aftermarket. The KYB struts that are most likely on your vehicle are the OE. We do not offer front struts for the 2008 Lexus GS350 AWD, only for the rear. This does exclude the Adaptive Control Suspension. For catalog assistance, please visit our user friendly website at http://www.kyb.com/ and click on the CATALOG tab. You will be given the option to look up parts by your vehicle's year, make, and model, vin number, and even the license plate number. For authorized KYB retailers, please click on the STORES/RETAILERS tab for stores in your area or online retailers. Once again, thank you for your inquiry.
   Best Regards,
   KYB Customer Support Team
   KYB Americas Corporation
   850 N. Graham Road, Suite C
   Greenwood, IN 46143
   

ibidu1

iTrader: (1)

You can purchase the rear shocks from KYB, and purchase fronts from the dealer. Or you can buy the rears and buy IS250 AWD front strongs, they say the valving is different, but I am sure it should be better then blown struts. The AWD is pretty cheap at $155 for the front pair http://www.ebay.com/itm/KYB-2-Front-...5WllOP&vxp=mtr

I purchased the rear for my AWD and they were the exact same. Even same dampening!

pbxcomm

I found this:

http://www.lexussouthatlantaparts.co...851080437.html

This is a "set" Strut and Spring
The exact same P/N here that is stamped on my front Strut..

Has anyone had any business experience with this Lexus Dealer?

MX73

It's also possible that the KYB OEM is tuned slightly different than KYB Aftermarket. One example I can think of is the GS/IS interchangeability.

ibidu1

iTrader: (1)

That is oem dealer part, $188 is retail price. If you know someone in the parts depertment or know a friend with a shop dealerships usually give them 20% discount. You can just purchase them locally.

pbxcomm

Well, perhaps this is a good strut P/N for all of those searching for an OEM Strut/Spring for GS AWD. The price is reasonable AND your not stuck with a Coilover solution (for those who prefer not to go with coilovers). I think one of the complaints and history of these cars is the harsh ride. I've owned BMW's and Lincolns, the ride and performance of both of these I think out does the Lexus. I did consider coilovers at one time however, I don't want to drop the car or deal with a more harsh ride.
Just my preference..

pbxcomm

MX73,
Good point.. Makes more sense to me now.

pbxcomm

Thanks for the replies!

Gs3500

So what did u end up goi with?

pbxcomm

I'm considering checking a few local dealers for pricing.. Its a hit or miss when it comes to dealers and parts/service.
One of the members here found what appears to be a new generation K-Sport Coilovers, I'll look in to these as well.
So, no purchase as yet, but I'll keep posting here with updates!

Thanks again for all the replies!

Just4Me

are u sure?? i dont think thats a set, i think thats just the shock....
if thats the complete assembly, thats a good deal