Tantrix

so can someone clarify. I will be needing new original struts soon and need to know what is compatible.

I don't understand how RWD aftermarket coilovers can fit the AWD (aside from the wobling), but the original RWD oem struts will not fit the AWD model.

so from what I read the rear struts will be compatible but the front struts for the AWD is different.

the original front AWD struts are very expensive so trying to make the best choice.

thanks

GS350Lexus

iTrader: (5)

Check part numbers, if they are different then you need to get specific struts for AWD. Aftermarket might make universal fit.

msgs350

iTrader: (2)

Fronts are different, whether its aftermarket or OEM. Springs are interchangeable, front struts are NOT.

IXI187IXI

iTrader: (3)

rear are identical, fronts are not. fronts have a C bracket that go on the bottom to go around the axle

Tantrix

so is this c clamp bolted into the strut? How is it possible that coilovers can fit the awd without the clamp attached ?

msgs350

iTrader: (2)

Yes, coilover strut is bolted to the clamp.Aftermarket coilovers are manufactured to fit the C clamp, just like the OEMs are. Hence why there are AWD specific coilovers.

msgs350

iTrader: (2)

Curious...
Whats the price difference for AWD struts vs RWD? Would you be better off buying aftermarket coilovers and having them installed vs. buying OEM like struts and paying for more labor time since a mechanic would have to disassemble (remove) your old springs and put them on the new struts?

I ask because i have an AWD that i 1st lowered with Tanabe springs, then bought BC racing coilovers. Now I've raised the car up to almost OEM height on the coilovers. I'm wondering if i should sell any components laying around,

IXI187IXI

iTrader: (3)

its threaded into the bottom of the strut/shock. you cant fit the awd without it. you have to take the part off the oem suspension and reuse on the coilovers

Tantrix

So can I take a oem shock from a rwd gs350 and bolt it in to the awd c clamp ? Im trying to avoid paying full price on a oem awd shock. The rwd shocks are available in aftermarket for a lot cheaper

IXI187IXI

iTrader: (3)

no, the fronts are different. you cannot use a front rwd shock and use the c bracket. rears are interchangeable, fronts you must buy an awd shock

Tantrix

Ok so aftermarket Coilover from rwd will bolt up to the awd c clamps...but the oem shocks from rwd will not bolt up to the front awd c clamp...is this correct ?

U see, I have to decide if I should just get rwd coilovers and set it slight lowered position to avoid wobble.....or awd oem shocks.

msgs350

iTrader: (2)

Not correct, We've told you in a few ways that RWD front struts will NOT fit the AWD front c-clamp, whether its OEM or aftermarket.

msgs350

iTrader: (2)

BC AWD, notice that the 2 middle coil overs for the front are shorter and have what looks like a nipple a the bottom. That is what the C-clamp bolt threads into.

Tantrix

ya but some people are saying aftermarket coilovers will fit into the AWD front C clamps.

so if the aftermarket coilovers made for RWD will fit the AWD, then why is is that the oem RWD shocks will not bolt onto the AWD C clamps ?

I just don't see how the aftermarket like BC or Ksport etc can be so far more advanced to have it already threaded to fit the AWD C clamps.

sprtn131

I was having this same problem when I was lowering my 06, there is no listing for awd front struts anywhere. I also did not want to pay dealership prices. So I went to Napa and got front struts for an IS350 awd. They are a direct replacement. Here's the kyb part# 551126 and 551127