Strut replacement questions
Hi folks, I recently joined this board, looking for experiences/recommendations replacing struts on an Intrepid. I bought a high-mileage '98 for my daughter. It's in pretty good shape, but the ride is absolutely dead and I'm considering replacing the struts. Looking for recommendations on both oem and after-market options, as well as any other info from past experiences with suspension maintenance on this vehicle. Thanks in advance.
OK, I will reply to my own post.
- It appears that "KYB" struts are the OEM equivalent. I didn't see any performance-upgrade struts for this car. Didn't bother checking Monroe/NAPA etc. which would be no better than OEM, maybe worse.
- Coil springs also don't seem to be a lot of options on the market. Eibach does make a performance upgrade, but it lowers the car, which I do not want to do in thisvehicle.
- I've been told to plan on replacing the strut mounts as well anytime struts are being replaced (more $$ than I had thought).
I'm still concerned about getting the old assemblies off, this is notoriously difficult. Hopefully there is room to use an extension handle for leverage, as I do not have access to an impact wrench. Any info based on practical experience would be welcome.
- It appears that "KYB" struts are the OEM equivalent. I didn't see any performance-upgrade struts for this car. Didn't bother checking Monroe/NAPA etc. which would be no better than OEM, maybe worse.
- Coil springs also don't seem to be a lot of options on the market. Eibach does make a performance upgrade, but it lowers the car, which I do not want to do in thisvehicle.
- I've been told to plan on replacing the strut mounts as well anytime struts are being replaced (more $$ than I had thought).
I'm still concerned about getting the old assemblies off, this is notoriously difficult. Hopefully there is room to use an extension handle for leverage, as I do not have access to an impact wrench. Any info based on practical experience would be welcome.


