Ok, I was trying to change the brakes over the weekend, and I realized that my front struts have severe rot on the lower brackets. Not to mention that the calipers are siezed and the springs could be better. So needless to say, I am now in the process of putting together a shopping list, while keeping the budget inder $1k.

Morse loaded calipers...$80
Gabriel struts (front).....$170 (both)
Gabriel struts (rear)......$70 (both)
Eibach spring kit (all)....$290
Mazdatrix SS brakelines....$85

I already have new rotors, and all I am missing is the strut mounts for all four corners. I have found them through Gabriel for $190 for all four, but I can't order them from Autozone for some reason. I also found Monroe part numbers, but haven't had a chance to get prices on those. Are there any other companies (other than Mazdatrix) that make mounts for the FC? I haven't been able to find anything other that full out race parts. I suppose I might be able to reuse the old ones (they aren't that bad) but I think changing them while I have the car apart makes more sense. Thanks for any help you have to offer.

RR87

 

If you can possibly stretch your budget, go for the KYB AGX adjustable struts/shocks. It's more money, but I think you'll really like them compared to the Gabriels. I've had them on my car for 4 years or so and love them. I'm running the Eibach Pro-Kit springs. There is no need for caster correction bolts with the Pro-Kit, but you can still feel a little of the progessive-ness of the springs. If you have intentions of any kind of competition (Autocross, road rally, track days, or even VERY spirited driving on backroads) get the non-progessive Sport-Kit. You might need the caster bolts for that, though.

Check out The Tirerack for the springs, $290 sounds high.

I also replaced my upper front strut mounts. I think mine were from Mazda or Mazdatrix. The recommendation had something to do with non-OEM mounts being too hard or not good quality. This may have changed since 4 years ago.

 

Yeah I agree on the AGX struts, you'll be glad you did.

 

I would go with the AGX, but the Gabriels have a life time warantee, and since I work at Autozone I will be able to replace them easily if I ever need new ones. That is one thing that is nice about Autozone, they don't **** around with the life time warantee. As long as I own this car I will never have to buy struts again.

 

As long as you are buying Gabriel. Even if the Autozone Dura-last has the lifetime warranty, I'd get tired of changing the struts.

 

Autozone only stocks Gabriel. Duralast doesn't make shocks or struts. I can get AGX's from work, but I don't really have the money to spend on them. I am trying to do this on a very tight budget, and the smaller the loan I have to take, the smaller the payments. Eventually, when money is less a worry I will look into upgrading.