Please register to participate in our discussions with 2 million other members - it's free and quick! Some forums can only be seen by registered members. After you create your account, you'll be able to customize options and access all our 15,000 new posts/day with fewer ads.
Hi,
I have a 1997 Subaru Outback and need new shocks.
I am away from home for the winter and away from my regular mechanic but called them today and they recommended KYB's.
I don't do off-road driving ... just normal roads although this winter i am living on a road with extremely hard-packed snow (basically ice) which is full of bumps, ruts and washboard but that's only for this winter.
Any advice will be appreciated.
Since i'm away from my mechanic and need to find an unknown one to do this job, i'd like to be as knowledgeable as possible before i start making calls.
Thank you.
Last edited by tireeskye; 01-11-2011 at 09:10 PM..
When I purchased my 1990 Lexus LS400 in 2004, someone had installed KYB-GR2 shocks on it... it didnt like like a Lexus, it rode like a dump truck. Make sure you dont get HD ones unless you like a truck-like ride.
I ended up going to my Toyota dealer and ordering factory shocks for my Lexus for $50 each and it rode like a new luxury car again.
KYB's come with a lifetime warranty as well.
I have only bought KYB Gas-A-Just's for over 30 years.
Great on road and off road. Great out of the box but they actually get better as they age.
If you like the original ride and handling, stick with factory shocks.
I do know kyb aftermarkets are not expensive at all, and come with a lifetime warranty.
Quote:
Originally Posted by tireeskye
Hi,
I have a 1997 Subaru Outback and need new shocks.
I am away from home for the winter and away from my regular mechanic but called them today and they recommended KYB's.
I don't do off-road driving ... just normal roads although this winter i am living on a road with extremely hard-packed snow (basically ice) which is full of bumps, ruts and washboard but that's only for this winter.
Any advice will be appreciated.
Since i'm away from my mechanic and need to find an unknown one to do this job, i'd like to be as knowledgeable as possible before i start making calls.
Thank you.
However, with a 1997 Subie, you may also consider replacing the rear strut assemblies with serviceable units from a boneyard. That's how I've kept my 1995 and 1997 Subie's on the road at substantially less cost than installing new inserts in the struts. Faster and easier to install the assembled units, too, and I've gotten years of service out of the parts.
Thanks all.
My mechanic said that KYB's are stiffer (i think that was the word) but do last longer although they won't provide a kooshy ride which is o.k. with me.
I just want my beloved car to last forever .... or close to it.
Ferretkona are the "gas-a-justs" a certain kind of KYB shock?
In other words, are there different KYB shocks that one can choose from?
The cost isn't an issue btw ... not that i'm rich but my Subaru has a new engine (2005) and i haven't put much money into repairs (knock on wood) and so am willing to spend what it takes to keep her in good shape.
Thanks all.
My mechanic said that KYB's are stiffer (i think that was the word) but do last longer although they won't provide a kooshy ride which is o.k. with me.
I just want my beloved car to last forever .... or close to it.
Ferretkona are the "gas-a-justs" a certain kind of KYB shock?
In other words, are there different KYB shocks that one can choose from?
The cost isn't an issue btw ... not that i'm rich but my Subaru has a new engine (2005) and i haven't put much money into repairs (knock on wood) and so am willing to spend what it takes to keep her in good shape.
There are several types of KYB shocks, they'll all be stiffer than originals, though their entry level shocks shouldn't provide too harsh of a ride. Other than that, they cater to the modifying scene, with good sport medium and high performance shocks.
They are internationally known for their quality.
Please register to post and access all features of our very popular forum. It is free and quick. Over $68,000 in prizes has already been given out to active posters on our forum. Additional giveaways are planned.
Detailed information about all U.S. cities, counties, and zip codes on our site: City-data.com.