I'm replacing my OEM struts with new KYB's (Gas-A-Just 551122) up front. I found some threads on struts, but nothing specifically on the correct (other than OEM Lexus part) strut mount. I emailed KYB as their listed mount (SM5779) shows it's only for the "L" model, but the same strut KYB 551122 is used for the L, Base, and F-Sport.
Here is their reply:
"I just spoke with our Tech department and they said it is likely to be compatible with your vehicle based on the most recent data that they have for this vehicle. However, SM5779 has not been tested on the Base or F sport so we cannot 100% confirm fitment. We cannot list SM5779 in our catalog for the Base until testing confirms fitment."
Wouldn't it only make sense that this mount WILL fit the base model because all 3 models use the same strut?

 

Hey how did the KYB and Shockmounts work out for your ride?

 

They are awesome. The ride is like new again. For the first couple hundred miles, it was a little stiff and I was concerned, but they softened up and I can hardly feel the road now. Also, the shock mounts I mentioned above DO fit perfectly. The manufacturer updated their catalog after I confirmed it.

 

Great. In the same situation where the dealer said I needed struts in the front. Couldn't find any strut assembly, so figured to do it with compressor tool and just replace struts. Did you do it yourself? If so how hard were they? did you do the backs as well?

 

It can be done with a compressor tool but I was nervous about doing it myself as it could be very dangerous. There are videos all over Youtube on doing it that way, with a free loaner tool. I found someone who was able to use a press and gladly paid him to do it. Otherwise, it is a pretty easy swap. From my research, there isn't a complete strut assembly out there that will ride as well as the KYB's with a similar quality. It's too bad, as I need to change all 4 on my '04LS430 but with the high miles and rusted OEM springs, I don't know what I will install without spending big money. I haven't found a good review on any aftermarket complete strut assembly.

 

Hey wanted to give you an update. I took it upon myself to replace both front struts with the KYBs. OMG!! The car drove well before, however, it drives like a dream now. I swear it feels like I am riding on a cloud. The entire job took me about 4.5 hours with compressing the springs taking most of the time. Word to the wise, use an impact wrench. Quite honestly, I would do it all again to get the results that I have now. Thanks for the feedback bro!

 

Congrats ebowoh, you compressed the springs yourself and lived to tell the tale! Thanks for following up and I'm glad it worked out for you. I'd still like to hear if there are any success stories with brands other than KYB. I sure wish they'd sell a complete strut and spring assembly.

 

I agree with you, KYB should sell a strut assembly. Would have cut the work in half. My research was exhausting and it looked like KYB was the only company for the LS 460. Looked at Monroe and Bilstein, but only KYB non-assembly was out there. Can't believe the dealer quoted me $2500 and the mount and struts were a little north of $300. SMH

 

Hi, I need to put in new front struts on my non-air suspension 2007 LS460. A question. It seems like not replacing the springs is ok? You just replace the 551122 KYB shock and the SM5779 shock mounts? Why not replace the springs? I am at 170k miles.

 

Here's the kit of all 4 KYB shocks and mounts: https://www.ebay.com/itm/35292638712...YAAOSwStheFtiH

 

I didn't replace the springs because I really did not want to mess with the way Lexus designed it to drive. After all, that's the reason I fell in love with the car.
"O"

 

To those who replaced your front strut mounts with KYB SM5779.
(a) What mileage did you replace them? were your OEM mounts still in good shape?
(b) Did the bump stop fit into the cup underneath? I am asking because in the rear KYB mounts the bump stop did not fit into the cup, I guess it was meant to "float" on the shaft. The original bump stop was wider and fit snugly into the cup.
(c) Were you happy with them?

Thanks.

 

No don't replace the springs car will never ride the same.

 

I never said anything about replacing the springs, only the strut mounts that go on top of the springs. But thanks for the pointer.