Coil and Shock Replacements - Parts Req'd?

[Whisperhead]

Hello all,

In the new year, I'm looking to have my suspension coils and shocks replaced - I just wanted to check in here first as I've read some that the mounts really should be swapped out also?

Is this everything I need?

- 4x shocks
- 4x coils
- 4x strut top mounts
- 4x strut mount bearings

[Carolyn]

Anti roll drop links front and rear. 

The front top mounts usually incude the bearings, and they are often in good enough condition to be lightly refurbished and reused, but hey - they're not that expensive and while you're in there...

[Gaz mr-s]

Most of the time the rear top mounts are re-usable.  The rear drop links usually need cut off because they can't be disassembled. If they still look in good condition you could try taking the rear a-roll bar off with the shocks to get to the allen fitting....? 

[Gaz mr-s]

I have a left rear new KYB for £68 posted available.

[Joesson]

@Whisperhead said:

4x shocks
- 4x coils
- 4x strut top mounts
- 4x strut mount bearings

I found that my 2002 at <60k front and rear top mounts required only cleaning and regreasing.
Front Top Mount Lower Dust seals ( felt washers) were needed.
Front shock gaiters were needed but the rear were not, still appeared as new.
Drop links front and rear were replaced.

[Whisperhead]

Great info - much appreciated.

Gaz ill bear your offer in mind, I think I'm going to try to get a matching set manufacturer-wise to ensure they all perform the same, so if I go for KYB units I'll give you a shout.

If anyone has recommendations for sourcing these parts (other than MR2-Ben or Mr T himself) I'm open to them 

Happy new year to you all.

[Ardent]

As each corner is individual has been known for members to end up getting from different suppliers due to availability.
Different part numbers.

All kyb, but might have to source from different suppliers to get the full set.

Think I got mine from our local parts suppliers.

[Joesson]

@Whisperhead
Of course, but not mentioned, so far, is the option of Koni inserts that look to be a well priced / good performing  option but one must remember that work is involved in modifying the outer case on the existing shock.
Some have purchased used shocks so as to prepare those while keeping the car on the road.
Used shocks would be available from J-Spec or another member!

[Carolyn]

Shop around on EBay for KYB.  As @Ardent says, you may well get them from different suppliers to get the best deals.

[Gaz mr-s]

Great info - much appreciated.

Gaz ill bear your offer in mind, I think I'm going to try to get a matching set manufacturer-wise to ensure they all perform the same, so if I go for KYB units I'll give you a shout.

If anyone has recommendations for sourcing these parts (other than MR2-Ben or Mr T himself) I'm open to them 

Happy new year to you all.

MR2 Ben is almost always dearer than can be had from elsewhere.  Mr T....jesus I shudder to think what they'd charge.
As Carolyn says ebay is usually best, but you've just missed a 15% off offer.

[Joesson]

@Whisperhead

I bought my KYB shocks from Parts in Motion.

They are currently offering one corner for  £67.79 all other corners are on offer but at higher price, but with -7% multi buy discount, perhaps worth checking.

I paid <£300 for all 4 BC ( Before Covid) , which seemed a good buy at the time, so from that and your observation you will see the price and availability does vary, I know not why.

[Bossworld]

Front top mounts have a variety of part numbers. The Avensis ones look very similar and I think some have fitted them but I went with proper MR2 intended ones. Ashika/Japanparts RU-2320

To Joesson's point, 'PartsInMotion' as a supplier is regularly included in eBay 15% off type sales on eBay,  I've renewed the full suspension on the Abarth using their promos.