1995 Infiniti Q45 Suspension (Shocks/Struts) - Confused!

[peaceofmindinhim]

Hello,

I am a proud owner of a 1995 Infiniti Q45. In fact, it's the third our family has owned, and my brother owns a J30 as well. Anyhow, I will readily admit I am clueless about the suspension of my car. Do I have shocks or struts, or both? My car is bouncing pretty bad in the back - as if I were in a rap video. I called Infiniti, and they quoted me around $375 per strut for the rear, and $550 for the front. So that leaves me to assume I DO have struts (which is what my friend the mechanic said). However, I was doing some research online, and I noticed I could buy Tokico SHOCK ABSORBERS (enter the confusion) which look the same to me as the struts. This is what confuses me. Also, I noticed I can buy rear shock absorbers (passenger and driver) from Tokico, and front passenger, but no front driver. What's the point if I can't replace all 4?? I'm not looking for absolute perfection, and I can not afford to purchase from the dealer. What are my options? Please don't laugh or make fun of me for my ignorance. I love my Q45 (base model, not active suspension, btw), and I don't want to part with it. Any ideas?

Thank you for your time,

Eric Olsen

Thank you again!

[MinisterofDOOM]

In answer to the strut vs shock absorber question is that shocks are a component of struts. A strut is a particular configuration for mounting the shock in regards to the suspension as a whole. Struts always have springs perched on them (as in the Q) as opposed to as opposed to having the spring and shock mounted separately (as seen here on the complex rear suspension of 2004 and later Maximas). This actually makes them supporting components of the suspension configuration whereas standalone shocks are usually independent from the actual supportive suspension structure and solely there to dampen motion.

You can get all four shocks from Tokico. For replacements from them, you have two main options: "blacks" or "blues." Blacks are the same as stock. Blues are quite a bit stiffer. If you want to keep your silky ride, you probably want to go with blacks. If you're looking for some improved handling at the expense of ride quality, blues are the way to go. Blacks are actually what the Infiniti dealer sells.

[peaceofmindinhim]

Thank you!!

[maxnix]

Struts al serve as a suspension locating link, as in MacPherson Strut front suspensions on FGY33, F50 and Y34 and all BMW and most Porsche.

All though G50 active don't locate the suspension except vertically, the struts are semi active while shocks are totally passive or reactive.

Call the guys at

http://www.infiniitpartusa.com

and get the complete Tokico Blue shock kit (includes gaiters) at the minimum. You probably have other bits and pieces of rubber that also need replacing like suspension bushings and upper links.

[peaceofmindinhim]

Alright, I realize I am going a bit off post here, but I was wondering if someone wouldn't mind telling me the difference between FGY33, F50, Y34, and Q45? I have a 1995 Q45. The reason i am asking, is I am thinking of modding my car with a body kit, etc, and I've noticed these terms used. Just want to get knowledgeable here folks! Thank you again for your responses! I'm very appreciative!