suspension

[bkbajan]

ok guys..I need new suspension.
New shocks
new struts (if possible)
And any other parts I may need.

So what am I looking at here?
what are the best choice of shocks and;
and where can I get them?

Any info is appreciated

Chris

[TBayToyotaBoy]

Okay, first things first: your Camry doesn't have shocks, it has struts all around. If your coil springs and strut mounts are still good (no extra bouncing or clunking in the suspension) then you can order replacement struts on eBay for dirt cheap, then pay a mechanic to put them in:

http://cgi.ebay.ca/STRUTS-LEXUS-ES250-TOYOTA-CAMRY-1987-88-89-90-1991-1992_W0QQitemZ220297935806QQcmdZViewItem?hash=item 220297935806&_trkparms=72%3A1215|39%3A1|66%3A2|65% 3A12|240%3A1318&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14

Or, just go to Pep Boys or one of your local parts stores and get a quote. Worst case scenario, you're paying full price for the struts (around $80USD each, if memory serves) and paying a mechanic lots of cash to install them... probably around $200 in labour (Canadian spelling, pardon the "u").

[HomeGrown]

Hey Tim, didn't you do your own install last year or so? IIRC, didn't you put wagon struts on the back of your sedan? How bad was the actual install? I'm thinking about getting new ones for all 4 corners, then get new tires & alignment.
I still gotta look & see if I've got servicable front struts or not.

[TBayToyotaBoy]

Bill, you get the gold medal for paying attention so closely...yes, I did install wagon struts on the rear of my V6 about three years ago. I just swapped them back out for regular sedan KYB struts recently, to level the car off again.

As for the ease of install, I 100% cheated. I took the pair off a wagon that was in the yard at work, and slapped them onto my Camry. The springs and mounts were all good, so I just installed the whole assembly. If you buy new cartridges, it's a bit tougher--you'll need a *good* spring compressor and a good impact gun to remove the top retaining nut (on the end of the cylinder where it bolts to the upper mount). Not too tough on the whole, I guess...

If you're going OEM, I recommend Monroe Sensa-Whatever. Not cheap, but awesome ride quality. On the other hand, a set of KYB GR2's with Intrax springs would look a LOT better!

[bkbajan]

I need good handling. From what was said..would Monroe be the better choice?
I live in New York so you guys would understand. Its a jungle!

[TBayToyotaBoy]

Yeah, for city driving (oh, the pot-holes) you could go with either the Monroe Sensa-Trac struts, or the KYB GR-2 struts. They're both top-quality. Try a search on this forum, and I'm sure at least the KYB's will come up in threads with glowing praise. I love 'em...I have them on the rear of my V6, with Monroes up front only because they were on sale when I was shopping.

[Jimnist]

I would personally steer clear from Monroe. I've heard too many people complain about them. KYB, however, they are apparently the bees knees. Have heard real good comments on them.

If your car bounces when you test the dampening (by pushing down), it it only the struts that wear? Or can the spring be worn as well (been there for too long as has creeped)?