DriftVIP

iTrader: (4)

Hi,

Does anybody have experience with KYB rear strut mount? I searched and lots of people here mentioned that the KYB FRONT strut mount is junk, what about the KYB rear? Also would I need to replace FRONT spring upper seat?. I need to replace all 4 struts and need some advice. Thank you.

JAB

If you're going to the trouble of replacing your struts, do the same for the strut mounts. And use OE mounts, not KYB. Been there but didn't do that and have regretted it. And yes, same advice front and rear.

fastnoypi

what were your problems with the KYB rear mounts? There are no bearings to fail.

hypervish

I have rear KYB strut mounts, I installed them since I got them for free or else I never would have. They are extremely loud, the first year they were sorta quiet but still noisy on cold days. Now they are noisy no matter the temperature, but awfully loud on cold mornings.

Mind you these strut mounts are only 2 years/40k miles old. The stock strut mounts at 12 years/160k miles were better than these KYB mounts.

DriftVIP

iTrader: (4)

Alright gonna go with the OEM rear strut mounts. Any other parts that I need to replace besides dust boots, bump stop, and lower insulator?

artbuc

Boots and bump stop should be reusable. Search this forum and you will find a thread by LexMex showing how to use a piece of vinyl tubing instead of a very expensive insulator. I did what LexMex suggested on both my RX and 99 Avalon. It works great and is dirt cheap.

Afterthought: On the rears, isn't the boot an integral part of the mount?

aznlapin

I haven't changed my struts yet, though I am planning to do so soon for my 02 AWD.

If I use KYB struts, would the strut mounts currently on my car be reusable or do I have to get new ones?

fastnoypi

did you notice anything that stood out in the build design of Lexus branded OEM KYB strut mounts vs the replacement KYB mounts that would have made a difference?

Did you use new spring isolators with your install?

fastnoypi

The boots complete the assembly but im pretty sure they can be sold separately. Most install by a keyed twist and lock under the mount.

hypervish

I didn't look too closely to be honest, I was more interested in getting it done quick! lol

I did not use new spring isolators, mine were in good shape.

fastnoypi

lol, fair enough. I'm still curious of the cause of the rear mount noise. They are really just pieces of stamped steel with rubber sandwiched between. I've only come across one explanation that was caused by the bellow rubbing against either the strut housing or the mount and it was cured by cinching it with a ziptie.

aznlapin

Still trying to find out if the old strut mounts can be reused with new KYB struts.

From a casual inspection, they look pretty ok. But probably can't make a judgement until I see them laid out. If they're in good condition, would that work?

hypervish

If your old strut mounts are in good condition and aren't making noise, then use them again.

People generally replace the strut mounts because they are already in there and there is no additional labor charge.

aznlapin

That is true. It''ll be less work than having to go at it again if the mounts go out later. But more money to spend :egad:

Thanks, hypervish.

hypervish

You're welcome!