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Just a quick note:
I have noticed some negative opinions regarding KYB shocks and strut cartridges lately - some formed by experience, many more by hearsay and prejudice.
Yesterday, I replaced the shocks and strut inserts on my father's '91 245. The rear shocks were KYB Gas-A-Just, and they had 10 years and over 75,000 miles on them. For half of those miles, I was the driver; back then, I hit a LOT of potholes and unseen speed bumps, as well as running off the road once or twice. The KYB Gas-A-Just shocks that came off, compressed (by hand) and rebounded almost exactly the same as the brand new Gas-A-Justs I installed. If they weren't so cheap, I would have saved the shocks that came off!
In comparison, the Gabriel strut inserts up front, which have been in service for about the same amount of time, were destroyed. One was so blown out that the shaft flopped in and out.
I installed new Gas-A-Justs in the rear and KYB GR2 (only they are called something else now) in the front, and the suspension is compliant, yet controlled.
When the time comes to replace the Sachs Advantage shocks and struts in my own car, I will absolutely buy the always "Made in Japan" KYBs for significantly less money.
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