Understanding Serviceable vs Non-Serviceable struts

[jamblaell]

I would like some assistance on understanding the difference between the two.

I have linked some pictures of my shocks. Can anyone tell me what I need to purchase to change out my shocks? I think the KYB GR2's are fine, I'm just unsure which to purchase.

My car is a 1991 Camry LE 4cyl.

http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h2...e/04092010.jpg

http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h2...mryDay1130.jpg

http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h2...mryDay1140.jpg

[atobe]

i don't see any pictures.... the serviceable ones there's a big nut on top where you can just replace the strut insert by itself not the whole thing... non serviable you'd just have to replace the whole assembly insert + casing... i have gr2 they're fine for everyday driving. if you're planning on replacing the shocks get the strut tops too where it mounts to the car i'm not sure what it's called.. i'm sure tirerack.com has them though

[jamblaell]

Thanks for your post, I think I understand a little better now. Going look at the car again.

I removed the IMG tags. The images should be clickable now.

Would the nut be visible in this picture, or would it be behind the cone shaped portion of the strut housing? http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h2...mryDay1130.jpg

[atobe]

yeah that's where the nut is... but it's hard to tell in the picture.. here's a pic when i replaced mine..

http://img401.imageshack.us/img401/8638/img0892zq3.jpg <-- serviceables..

[jamblaell]

Okay, I'm gonna go with non-serviceables then.

Is there a cheaper/better place to buy them than Rock Auto?

Thanks for your help, it's much appreciated.

[Jimnist]

Pretty sure you have non-serviceable ones. The nut should be pretty obvious when you lift the dust boot. In your pic, it looks like it's pressed by a machine.

Can't comment on where to buy since i'm not in the states, sorry.

Atobe, is the nut on tight? I was about to change my struts and springs but realised i don't have anything large enough. The replacement shocks came with nuts that are 54mm edge to edge (approx 2.12 inches). I know i can chisel it to get it off, but tightening them would be a problem. Is there a special service tool? I thought about multi-grip(aka channel lock) pliers but would they tighten it enough?

[jamblaell]

Just to close the loop on this thread, I was able to find the KYB GR2's for $219.99 shipped on www.ajusa.com. They were the same base price on rockauto and ebay, but the shipping charges for those increased the price to $235ish.


Part Number Product Description Qty Unit Price Price

KYB 235041 Item: GR-2 Suspension Strut Assembly
Fits: 1991 TOYOTA CAMRY (CAMRY; Sedan; FWD); w/ Sealed Struts; Recommended OE Replacement; Front Right; w/ Sealed Struts; Reco 2 $56.75 $ 113.50

KYB 235042 Item: GR-2 Suspension Strut Assembly
Fits: 1991 TOYOTA CAMRY (CAMRY; Sedan; FWD); w/ Sealed Struts; Recommended OE Replacement; Rear Right 1 $51.75 $ 51.75

KYB 235043 Item: GR-2 Suspension Strut Assembly
Fits: 1991 TOYOTA CAMRY (CAMRY; Sedan; FWD); w/ Sealed Struts; Recommended OE Replacement; Rear Left 1 $51.75 $ 51.75

HND AJR HANDLING Item: AJUSA Handling Fee
Fits: 1 $2.99 $ 2.99

Sub Total $ 219.99
CA Sales Tax $0.00
Shipping $0.00
Total $219.99


Edit: Received these April 28th. Time from order to receipt of goods was 2.5 weeks. Good thing I didn't absolutely need them.