phlanigan

For you guys that have replaced shocks on an FD with 80K+ miles, have you also needed to replace the rubber mounting pieces?

The dealer wants around $100 for the three rubber pieces that are above each shock. I'm considering buying Konis and want to factor in the cost for install. Is there a cheaper place to buy these?

SanJoRX7

Which rubber mounting pieces? I have noticed on my FD that there are some rubber pieces that have deteriorated quite a bit. If you are worried at all, I'd just go ahead and replace them. If the pieces from the dealer are too expensive you can try and find an acceptable substitute (i.e. find the material and fab them yourself).

My method of operation is typically to replace it if it hasn't been done yet, since our cars tend to have a lot of miles on them on the original equipment. But then again, I have no money, so that hasnt' been an issue for me lately

rotary-tt

You only need the mounting rubber (with the 3 bolts) and the spring seat. I replaced the mounting rubber since the dust boot was bad. You don't need the rubber for the strut rod nut (center).

m_snoby

I agree with rotary -tt. I did this and replaced all the rubber except (like him the rubber on top of the NUT).
Part of owning a car with a lot of miles.
sorry

tcb100

Replace all the rubber. The spring perch, the rubber at the top of the strut, the mounting rubber with the bolts and the top donut. The little piece on top is cheap any way. Its the mounting rubber that costs so much.

I also suggest that you get new nuts for the strut. Mine were a mess. they came off fine but were cross threaded and tore up the shock on the way back down. I had to use a die to straighten out the threads. GJust get new nuts.

If you are planning on springs too, get longer spacers.

tcb100

Check prices at Gaithersburg Mazda and be sure to call Ray Crowe at Malloy Mazda in Woodbridge.

rxshun7

Anyone have problems with the top rubber washer that goes under the top nut? I replaced my shocks and it doesn't seem like there is enough room to put the washer on.

phlanigan

Thanks for the tips. I priced the parts at Darcars in Silver Spring, but I was going to try Malloy tomorrow. I decided to go ahead and replace everything while I'm at it. Four shocks and a four-wheel brake job--its going to be a big weekend for me!