FAQ

1. What is the difference between original equipment KYB and the aftermarket KYB?
2. What is the difference between a monotube shock and a twin-tube shock?
3. What are the points to know when installing shock absorbers?
4. I noticed a light film of oil on the shaft of my shock/strut do I need to replace them?
5. Do I need to align my tires after I have my struts replaced?
6. How do I know if a strut is rebuildable?
7. Can worn shocks or struts cause my new tires to wear unevenly?
8. What causes my vehicle to make clunking noises even though my shocks/ struts are new?
9. Should I consider replacing any other part while having my struts serviced?



1. What is the difference between original equipment KYB and the aftermarket KYB?



The original equipment KYB shock/struts are designed to the OE manufacturers’ specifications. The aftermarket KYB products are designed to compensate for worn suspension components to help restore the vehicles original handling and control capabilities. Additionally KYB offers monotube shocks which are intended to provide your vehicle with additional control and handling capabilities.



2. What is the difference between a monotube shock and a twin-tube shock?



Twin-tube shocks have two cylinders. The inner cylinder or working cylinder is where the piston and rod move up and down. The outer cylinder serves as the reservoir for the hydraulic fluid. There are valves in both the piston as well as at the base of the working cylinder. The valves at the base allow the fluid to flow between the working cylinder and the outer cylinder.


A monotube shock is designed with a single cylinder and two pistons. One piston is attached to the shaft and it valved to control the flow of fluid. The second piston is a floating piston located at the bottom of the cylinder. The floating piston separates the nitrogen gas and hydraulic oil and it’s used to cushion and then respond to any aggressive vehicle movement.



3. What are the points to know when installing shock absorbers?


  • Hold the shock absorbers vertically.
  • Pull the piston rod / cover right up to the maximum expansion
  • Press down the piston rod/cover to maximum compressed length.
  • Do this operation at least 4 to 5 times
  • This operation allows to prime up the shock absorber
  • Always use a new lock nut when installing new shock absorbers
  • While installing the brake hose, make sure to release air bubble on brake hose
  • Always use a torque wrench to tighten the lock nut
  • Please check the manufacturers service manual for torque required.
  • Replace the bumper stop in case it is missing or broken. Bumper stop is fitted on the shock absorber to prevent bottoming and possible damage to the bottom compression valve of the shock absorber.
  • Remove the stabilizer link from the strut assembly & the brake hose.
  • Cap the tip of the hose to avoid spillage of brake fluid
  • Take off the bolts from the bottom attachment bracket
  • Take off the attachment nut on top and remove the strut assembly from the vehicle
  • Hold the strut assembly and set spring compressors on both sides and compress the springs
  • Remove the lock nut located on top of the rod
  • Take off the upper support assembly, spring seat, coil spring and dust boot
  • Keep these parts in one location as they may be re used for installation of the new shock absorbers.
  • Always use the proper tools to replace shock absorbers like torque wrench and a pair of spring compressors



4. I noticed a light film of oil on the shaft of my shock/strut do I need to replace them?



Not necessarily, a small amount of oil is normal as it is used lubricate the shaft and the seals. However if the unit is dripping oil, it should be inspected by a qualified technician.



5. Do I need to align my tires after I have my struts replaced?


Yes, during the strut installation both the toe and camber may change. To ensure the vehicle’s alignment is within the designed specifications of the vehicle manufacturer we recommend an alignment.


6. How do I know if a strut is rebuildable?


Some struts can by rebuilt by replacing the worn cartridge with a new cartridge. Repairable struts can be identified by a large hexagonal shaped nut atop the strut body. Please remember that struts are gas charged and that replacement should only be performed by a qualified technician.


7. Can worn shocks or struts cause my new tires to wear unevenly?


Absolutely, however other factors such as incorrect air pressure and an improperly aligned suspension can also lead to uneven tire wear. In most cases worn shocks/ struts will leave a “cupped” wear pattern on the tire.


8. What causes my vehicle to make clunking noises even though my shocks/ struts are new?


This is usually caused by a mounting problem and not the shock or strut itself. The strut mount itself may be worn enough to cause the strut to move up and down resulting noise. Another common cause of noise is that the shock or strut may not be tight enough causing the unit to have play and again make noise.


9. Should I consider replacing any other part while having my struts serviced?


Yes, it is also a good idea to replace both the strut mount and the strut boot when replacing struts. The strut mount optimizes suspension performance by providing a smooth steering response and reducing vibration. Strut boots will protect your new struts from dirt, dust, salt and leakage.






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