Markaw100

Hi guys, I recently bought a 2000 LS400. In order to pass MD state inspection one of the things I have to do is return it to stock height (it was lowered). A local mechanic told me that I needed new springs shocks and struts. Where can I purchase these items at a decent price? The mechanic said it would be in excess of $1000 if he was to order the parts. He also said I would have to put smaller wheels on it because if he raise it to stock height the wheels currently installed (20") would rub against the suspension. Is this true? As you can probably tell I don't know a great deal about car parts and repair / modifications. Please help and thanks in advance for your input.

Mark

PureDrifter

iTrader: (10)

who said u have to return it to stock height for a state inspection???/

Markaw100

I went to a state inspection station and it was one of the items listed as to why I failed the inspection. I planned on returning it to stock height anyway. I don't like the way it rides.

steveski

Wow that is strange - I have never heard of a lower than OEM car failing - tough in Maryland. I'd post in the classifieds on this board as there has to be guys wit stock parts for sale. Better than buying new.

trukn1

Yeah, MD is real **** when it comes to their inspections. They will fail a car for the smallest little thing, evenif it is a 2 minute fix which can be done right there on the spot. Mark, which part of MD are you located in? Drop me a pm and I may be able to aid in your problem resolution. Also, welcome to the club. Lots of good guys here, with lots of good advice. Except for Puredrifter,LOL!!! NOBODY listens to him (joking,, he really is a good and very knowledgeagle guy here). Drop down to the NELOC forum as well and check out some of the local gathering in the area.

PureDrifter

iTrader: (10)

ohh ye of little faith....

TJW98LS

iTrader: (1)

What kind of drop do you have? and how much?

RA40

iTrader: (6)

Welcome to CL.

What is the current suspension in it now?

If the struts in good working order, you can buy springs and have those installed. Stock springs from a dismantler or basically used should be about $100 typically. New basic struts go for about $40 each X4. Install of springs and struts ~$200. If you are planning on keeping the car, I'd suggest doing all of them, springs and new struts.

The 20's will not rub if they don't rub now. Plenty of OEM wheels floating about and a set of four will range from $100-$500 depending on condition. Add in tires at ~$300-???

CK6Speed

iTrader: (1)

Wow, MD sounds like Hawaii. Technically, we can't pass our anual safety inspection with a lowered car either. Although if the drop is mild most places don't even notice. Also, if we want to lower the car and be legal, we can submit for what our county calls a Reconstruction Permit (RECON) where we go so a specific inspection station and they go over all the modifications done to your car to see if it meets the federal and state laws. If it does, you get a special RECON sticker and you can pass the regular safety inspections with the lowered car or larger rims and such.

19psi

note to self: do not move to MD.
technically you don't need new struts. just new stock springs. there have to be some used stock springs for sale here oor on vipstylecars.com or even ebay.