2K Q45 coilovers cheaper alternative to OEM struts

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Q45-pj
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So i called Scottsdale infiniti for struts and was told that all of the parts I need will run $1760. I can't really afford to spend so much money. Especially on a 14 year old car. But I totally need struts. These are dead. I found some Ksport coilovers for $1k and found a local race shop to do the install for $300 with the welding included. What do you guys think?
I have to replace my steering rack, valve cover gaskets so anywhere I can save a few bucks is an option. I'd much rather keep it OEM but more than $2K just for the shocks is a bit too expensive for me. Here's a pic of the Ksports
Image


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elwesso
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You might also check about getting some of the KYB SR Specials from Japan. That may be a lot easier than getting coilovers.

Q45-pj
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I looked into them. When I called memory fab they said the wait time is 10 weeks.

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elwesso
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Would you rather wait 10 weeks, or pay $1300 for shocks?

Did you ask them about just the strut INSERTS? I don't think OEM ones are that expensive? You may have to say it's from a 97 Q45.

Q45-pj
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All I need are the non touring struts? Scottsdale infiniti told me they don't make inserts for my model. Shady dealers.. I want to get new springs and change all of the rubber components too. plus I looked at some reviews where both of the guys I spoke with were mentioned by name. They were not so nice. Pretty bad actually. So i was a bit reluctant about that as well. But If I could get an OEM set for the non touring ver I will.
Thanks!

PS: Where can I find a repair guide? I'd like to be able to do some of the stuff myself, but I don't really know much. I found one at auto zone for 93-03 maxima But wasn't sure it would be relevant.

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elwesso
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They make the inserts for the 97-98 which didn't have the adjustable suspension. They're technically right, but that doesn't mean there isn't something that's compatible. Why do you want to replace the springs? Are the sagging? That's the only reason to replace the springs, or if they're epically rusty or something.

If you want a service manual, check out www.infinitiservicemanual.com

Q45-pj
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The look pretty bad from the underside view.. They also are pretty bouncy. I can't even get an alignment. plus the car has 195k I got w/193k and the prev owner didn't take particularly good care of the car.

Q45-pj
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Thanks for FSM!

BadQ45t
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I did the KYB SR Specials and Tein springs on my 97....unfortunately the front right Tein spring is now failing me about 8 years later althought it is still workable and still way better than stock was. The KYB's if you can get them are great, but you'd also need to get OEM springs or Espelir which are hard to find. Frankly as long as your okay with a stiffer ride I would think seriously about the coilovers you found. If (big if) you trust the shop that is going to be doing the install and they are 100% confident that they will work I would probably roll with that.

Scottsdale guys are not shady, the are a legit Infiniti dealership that has been around since day one and I have bought plenty of stuff from them at a smaller price then local dealerships would sell. Everything always arrived on-time and in tack, and in fact I had to cancel an order 3 days after I made a special order and they were cool about cancelling.

Q45-pj
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By stiff do you mean like the ride in a 98 vs 2k? I'd even be okay w/BMW stiff.

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elwesso
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The main thing that I don't like about the coilovers is that likely the car will sit a lot lower (making it difficult to align properly), and it will likely ride a lot more harsh...

Even brand new OEM will feel a lot stiffer than blown... :)

Q45-pj
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Ok so I was reading an article by Qship about installing non touring struts on a touring model.
This one here
Image

If this is correct can I just order struts for a 98 Q and strut mounts for a 2kQ and be all set? Please be way simple w/replies. This would be a way better deal than the kyb sr since I wouldn't have to wait 10 weeks. And would likely save on the cost of shipping. Which is to the tune of $150 from memo fab to nyc

Thanks guys!

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paranoidjack
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Here is a photo of the factory 2000 AE struts I ordered from Infiniti of Scottsdale. Same price, 7 years ago. Time to do it again, actually, if not for the rust eating my body...

Anyway, if it's of any help. I seem to remember folks on here saying that the AE and 01 adjustable struts were not compatible with inserts, and were one piece. Maybe this picture will assist.

Looks like they just twist right in there...anyone know?

Image

BadQ45t
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He is right about the coilovers, I forgot you had the adjustable ones on the Anni edition. If you can just get the KYB's in there the springs are probably fine and then call it a day. Unless you're heart is really set on lowering it. Now in hindsight as I still have my car wish I'd left left the ride height alone or found Espelir springs as the Teins failed me and I still love the car. I will drive it another 2 years and then probably have to charity a very nice car.

Q45-pj
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I don't really care about lowering it. In fact in nyc I don't see how lowering even makes sense, since our roads are like s***. One guy who was lowered told me he goes up ramps sideways, and can't turn the full radius b/c the tire rubs the fender. But maybe I'm crazy.
I'm just trying to find an alternative to stealership price. $1700 for the full assembly is insane. I found some BC racing coilovers, and the come w/a spindle so there's no welding required. But at $1450 w/install it doesn't make sense to not get stock. I've been searching like crazy online trying trying to find the kyb sr here so I don't have to wait the 10-12 weeks from memory fab. But my only option seems to be the ksports/Meagans. Or another note. I really like the stock feel. Aside from the rattling when I go over bumps, and bouncing. (Insert laughter here) they're great!
On a much more positive note. Valve cover gaskets went in last.sadly I couldn't do it myself. But one of the new coil packs I put in was white. Almost like it burned. I'm about to start a thread but thought I'd ask you guys since you all are already here.
Egr error I was getting was the tube. The tube wasn't in properly.

Looks clean
Image

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Infinitiguy19
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Thats clean???

How many miles on the car? Maybe its the lighting?

Q45-pj
Posts: 76
Joined: Thu Oct 03, 2013 6:17 am
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195k I want to say its that one can of marvel mystery oil and not the regular oil changes by the previous owner. Maybe he wasn't so bad after all.


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