Hello folks. Please share your experience with front struts replacement. I installed KYB SR-4520 and KYB SR-4521 a few days ago and found that they're going harder than OEM. Now considering going by original.
I know it was on the table many times but nobody shared if KYB got better after few thousands miles.

 

I know what you mean and are experiencing. First a clarification - KYB shocks ARE in fact OEM. What you mean is “OE.”

The explanation I heard a while back, and it has been proven true in a lot of people’s experience, is that KYB says they valve the replacements slightly stiffer on purpose, largely as a compensation “guesstimate” style calibration for worn components elsewhere. Another thing is that you are comparing likely worn, squishy OE schocks to new replacements. They are going to feel firmer even if you use OE. Plus, the shocks will break-in and soften in a few thousand miles. Most people report experiencing this. You also have to allow what is due to shocks and what might be other components not replaced - e.g., if you did not replace mounts, lower control arms, etc., it may not all be due to shocks.

I’ve put replacement OEM KYB shocks in 1/2 dozen different Lexus and never regretted it, in fact put some in the GS this month.

 

Part of the problem is the use of quick struts with springs as the unit is calibrated for a TC or Prius which weighs less. I hope you saved the OEM springs etc as you will need them if buying OEM front struts. https://www.rockauto.com/en/parts/ky...assembly,15174

There are no aftermarket struts for the HS, I do not think KYB sells them as aftermarket for the HS.

 

I still keep my original struts and springs. After few days with KYB decided to go by Lexus original struts, bearings and insulators. I will keep topic updated.