Parts to Replace with Struts?

[Ilovemyvtx]

Hey Driveaccord!

It's been a long time since I've been active on here but I'm kinda back. I joined the Air Force and I'm finally getting back around to customizing my baby.

I picked up a Tokico HTS kit and I have some Tein S.techs on the way.

Since I'm planning on doing this job myself and would like to buy everything before hand, I need to know what all parts should be replaced when changing out struts. (I.e. any rubber parts, bolts that could strip easily, etc???)

Also, what type of grease do I use on bushings?

Thanks for the help!

Josh

[mobiless2]

Just installed my HTS, just check the top hats. Mine were in great shape so I reused them. Make sure you have at least one rear camber arm. Any lower than 1.5" in front and you will need front adjustable ball joint.

[CarlR33]

If you replace the mount kits (rubber mounts) get quality stuff. I replaced mine with NAPA and midas brand (that replaced the failing NAPA one) with not the best luck.

[njhustler]

Originally Posted by mobiless2

Just installed my HTS, just check the top hats. Mine were in great shape so I reused them. Make sure you have at least one rear camber arm. Any lower than 1.5" in front and you will need front adjustable ball joint.

How do you like them?. Mine are on the way and I was a little curious. Also did you adjust the settings and if you did what did you set them to?.

[mobiless2]

Originally Posted by njhustler

How do you like them?. Mine are on the way and I was a little curious. Also did you adjust the settings and if you did what did you set them to?.

Very surprised, car feels like factory just slightly tighter. Have not adjusted shocks yet. Will be increasing firmness today. One click at a time till I find my sweet spot.

[Ilovemyvtx]

So I checked the top hats and they seemed slighly pliable. Not really sure what to look for lol.

If I buy new top hats, what brands are recommended?

Also, the stock shocks have the rubber covers to prevent debris on the rod. What is recommended to replace these? I'm not really wanting have to replace these things multiple times.

[04accHI]

If you want to upgrade the top hat rubber bushings, you have the option of using the TL-S bushings. They're more expensive but are stiffer.

http://www.heeltoeauto.com/honda-gen...pe-s-spec.html

http://www.tsxclub.com/forums/1st-ge...-top-hats.html

I just bought the HTS and H-Techs, and plan to order the TL-S bushings. Hope this helps.

[sodaks2k]

I didn't buy any new parts when I installed my hts's and s-techs. My car had 120k and everything looked good. Front camber was within specs but the rear needs camber arms. I have the struts set at 2.75 turns from the stiffest setting. Rides like oem!

[Ilovemyvtx]

I didn't even know the TL-S used different bushings. I will look into those. Thanks.

[03AZAccord]

A couple of questions to go along with this thread.
03 EXL I4
I am not planning on any custom springs or struts.

I am told my compliance bushings are cracking. What are those and where are they located?

Second, I need to do front struts as well.
Can I do this myself? I'm able to do my own brakes etc. so I'm fairly comfortable mechanically.
Is this difficult? Is there a tutorial somewhere on the site or should I just buy a manual to help guide me?
What else should I replace when I'm taking everything apart?

Also any suggestions on aftermarket standard struts?
I seem to like KYB, no particular reason though.
I question Monroe. If their struts are only supposed to last 50k as they recommend, that doesn't inspire much confidence.

Thanks for any help!!

[sodaks2k]

Originally Posted by 03AZAccord

I am told my compliance bushings are cracking. What are those and where are they located?

Search "compliance" in the 7th gen section

Which will lead you to this ultimate compliance thread on acurazine
http://tl.acurazine.com/forums/showthread.php?t=707888

Originally Posted by 03AZAccord

Second, I need to do front struts as well.
Can I do this myself? I'm able to do my own brakes etc. so I'm fairly comfortable mechanically.
Is this difficult? Is there a tutorial somewhere on the site or should I just buy a manual to help guide me?
What else should I replace when I'm taking everything apart?

Search "struts" in the DIY section

http://www.driveaccord.net/forums/sh...ad.php?t=45260

Originally Posted by 03AZAccord

Also any suggestions on aftermarket standard struts?
I seem to like KYB, no particular reason though.

Search "struts" in the 7th gen section

here are a few

http://www.driveaccord.net/forums/sh...ghlight=struts

http://www.driveaccord.net/forums/sh...ghlight=struts

http://www.driveaccord.net/forums/sh...ghlight=struts

[03AZAccord]

Thx for the quick response and great info!

[Ilovemyvtx]

Compliance bushings are known to tear. Unless they are bad, I wouldn't even worry about them. Make sure you do it the right way (pushing in a new bushing) instead of replacing the whole control arm.