[meatnpotatoes7]

I just hit 52k on a 04, I was wondering about when people usually change their struts? I live in California, so you guys know how bad it is out here I was wondering if getting springs (RCE) would improve the quality? or will it damage the spring, i hear people talking about installing springs will improve the ride, matching the struts with stiffer springs?

Also I was wondering what inexpensive replacement struts are available for our cars? I've seen Koni's, but will this improve the ride quality and improve the suspension?I was looking into Ohlins fixed perch struts, they look hot! but can't afford them, and do anyone know what are the overhaul interval for these struts?

[GTWORX.com]

Originally Posted by meatnpotatoes7

I just hit 52k on a 04, I was wondering about when people usually change their struts? I live in California, so you guys know how bad it is out here I was wondering if getting springs (RCE) would improve the quality? or will it damage the spring, i hear people talking about installing springs will improve the ride, matching the struts with stiffer springs?

Also I was wondering what inexpensive replacement struts are available for our cars? I've seen Koni's, but will this improve the ride quality and improve the suspension?I was looking into Ohlins fixed perch struts, they look hot! but can't afford them, and do anyone know what are the overhaul interval for these struts?

People usually replace their struts when they start to 'clunk' or make noise. Others replace them sooner because they know the stock STi struts do not deserve the STi name. Springs will improve the ride in terms of reducing 'bobblehead', as long as you buy a set of springs designed for the STi struts; ie. RCE. They won't increase or decrease the life of the strut, since all STi struts are prone to clunking sooner or later.

The only real replacement struts are the Ohlins Fixed Perch. They would never need to be rebuilt, as long as you aren't rallying them! Koni's are a good alternative but are certainly not a direct bolt-in solution. Ideally, the RCE springs with Ohlins Fixed Perch struts are the best way to go. If money is a factor and you are willing to tear apart some WRX struts go the Koni and RCE spring route.

Mike

[meatnpotatoes7]

Thanks for the feedback!

So the Ohlins Fixed Perch don't never have to be rebuilt for city/track driving? I thought they had to be built like every 2 or so years? Whats the life of the struts usually, kinda stupid question, but they wouldn't last longer than the car, would they?

[Pitcherman]

Originally Posted by meatnpotatoes7

Thanks for the feedback!

So the Ohlins Fixed Perch don't never have to be rebuilt for city/track driving? I thought they had to be built like every 2 or so years? Whats the life of the struts usually, kinda stupid question, but they wouldn't last longer than the car, would they?

I believe you are confusing struts and coilovers. Coilover suspensions usually has to have the vales rebuilt every so often (time depends on driving conditions). Sturts are pretty much single life pieces. You don't rebuild them (on this car anyway) you replace them when they (the seals) fail.

[meatnpotatoes7]

Originally Posted by Pitcherman

I believe you are confusing struts and coilovers. Coilover suspensions usually has to have the vales rebuilt every so often (time depends on driving conditions). Sturts are pretty much single life pieces. You don't rebuild them (on this car anyway) you replace them when they (the seals) fail.

I was a little confused. I thought these struts you could get rebuilt as well. I know coilovers require rebuilding periods. But you wouldn't be able to repair these struts? Just wondering.

[GTWORX.com]

Yes, the Ohlins Struts are rebuildable. But they will outlive the life of the car!

Mike