I have some brand new L-Tuned springs and I'm gonna buy some KYB shocks to go with them. I have a question for you guys that have done similar setups.

I've heard that you should cut the bottom section of your OEM bump stops off when installing lowereing springs. I was told this should really help with the ride. Has anyone done this?

I've also started calling around to get quotes on the install with an alignment. Here are some crazy prices I've been quoted.

Lexus dealer = $650
Local import shop = $900
Another local import shop with a good reputation = $1100

You guys think it's worth paying Lexus or call around to some average shops? I have read so many threads about camber problems and going through tires like crazy when you drop the car. Every one talks about going to a really good alignment shop to solve some of these problems. Is the Lexus dealer considered a "good alignment shop"? I can't really find a good performance shop in my area.

 

Hey B. So were you able to confirm that the KYB-GR2 are the same as the "L-tuned" branded shocks?

For what it's worth, I had my shocks installed at the dealer. They quoted me 1.2 hours per corner on the front and 1.0 hour per corner on the rear. I believe the standard shop rate was $120/hour, so it should be around $528. Did the price Lexus quoted you include an alignment?

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Hey man
Yes the price included alignment. I think my Lexus dealer charges $95 per hour. Maybe the Lexus techs here work a little slower.

 

I got a bunch of quotes in that same price range $500-1100 without alignment. Finally got a shop to do the s/s install for $325 I think. I'd keep calling around.

 

I paid $550 installed with an alignment. That was from a shop that specializes in Lexus only with Lexus certified mechanics. The Lexus dealer wanted $800 with an alignment.

 

those prices are out of this world for a simple suspension install.
Local places here in NYC charge about $250 without alighment.
shop around

 

texas is about $250-$300 with alignment included.

 

$300 to install springs/struts, strut mounts, AND ball joints at local mechanic. You can get a better price.

 

$300 installed with an alignment.

I agree with Maintrain, you can get a better price man.

 

The only thing I'm worried about bringing the GS to some cheaper place is that they won't follow Lexus torque specs and if they mess something up or lights come on they'll just stand there confused and say "you got to bring it to the dealership" .
I guess if I'm that picky I should just bring it to the dealer and pay for peace of mind.

Back to my original question about cutting off the bottom section of bump stops? I take it no one has done this or had their installer do this?

 

as far as I know, mine were not cut. I have no issues with my suspension after install.

 

cutting the bump stop increase the travel. anyways, i would pay over 200 for labor although i did the work myself. its not hard and quite simple.

 

I called some smaller shop today and they said they could probably do it for $250-300 without alignment.

So what do you guys think? Tell the installers to cut the bump stops for more travel or leave them alone? I want the subtle drop with nice ride. Just trying to see what the rest of the crew have done. This was recommended to me by someone with mucho knowledge about the suspensions on our cars.

 

you gotta leave atleast an inch. some people may say different but i havent had any issues. 250 is not bad, that is how much it should cost.