Suspension Question ('97 Camry LE)

[gtchamp7]

I was wondering if anyone knew what type of suspension came stock in the '97 Camry LE? I know the front has struts, but I only know this because there are strut tower mounts under the hood. Beyond that, I know nothing about suspensions.

I was going to replace the rear suspension because it has A LOT of travel and seems to be getting lower than the front. You can lift on the wheel-well with literally no effort and lift the suspension to its full extent.

If you would be able to give me the full suspension details, that would be much appreciated because I might just go ahead and replace the entire suspension.

Two last, quick questions: 1) I know TRD makes shocks/struts. Do they make them for the my Camry? 2) If I was to lower the ride height, what all is entailed in doing this?

Thank you very much for any help!

[Luc]

Both front and rear use struts for suspension. Bilstein used to supply TRD struts for the Gen4/4.5, but no longer. Your current options are Monroe, Tokico, or KYB for struts. You can keep the factory springs, otherwise, you can get lowering ones which include Eibach and H&R. There are also complete coilover systems if you want to go that route. Lots of information that you can find in this forum.

Here are the tools you would need for DIY:
- wrench & sockets: 10mm, 12mm, 14mm, 17mm
- 10mm allen key
- 14mm open wrench or adjustable wrench
- torque wrench, up to 160 ft-lb
- spring compressor

The fronts are easily accessible, but for the rears, you need to remove the bench and side arm supports in order to get to the rear strut mount nuts.

[tbalon]

I just replaced the rear struts on my 97 and I did my research just like you. I came across a few videos on youtube that I found helpful.

You Tube

You Tube

http://www.youtube.com/watch?NR=1&v=A30ZOXcvTGE

Also I think there are several how to's for struts in this forum and others. I bought the Leacree complete strut assembly from rockAuto.com at about $80 each but that included everything and it only took about 45 min to do one side and even less to do the other. This is for OEM performance level struts as that was all I was looking for. After installing them I noticed the car handles much better, does not dive when stopping and sits up a little higher than previously.