Pyrophilus

Hi,

I have set of KYB GR-2 rear strut inserts for my '92 GXE. I've already replaced the front struts, but I have a question about the rears.

It says to use proper strut fluid. I checked with two local dealers and they said that "Nissan strut oil" has been discontinued, and that even Nissan sells complete rear struts instead of inserts now...

I was told from one dealer that I might be able to use ATF. Then a mechanic said that I couldn't. I read on motorvate.ca that the guy used radiator coolant to fill his strut.

Consider that I have had such a hard time looking for the "nissan strut oil", is there something else that I can use? Can I use radiator coolant? Apparently, the function of the oil isn't to lubricate, but to transfer heat from the inserts to the outer casing of the strut... I am thinking that radiator coolant does make sense then...

MrGone

iTrader: (30)

never heard of using coolant, I used ATF, and that was recommended to me by a bunch of people. I guess it really doesnt matter since its only real purpose is to transfer heat.

Tarzan

Hey Pyro, are your rear struts original? Then just reuse what's already in the old struts if you still have the OEMs. All you need oil for is heat transfer, any mineral oil will do.

Mizeree_X

iTrader: (9)

I would use a light oil. Even though the purpose is to transfer heat, you want the fluid to be viscous enough so that it "sticks" to the outer part of the struts somewhat. There isn't enough heat generated such that ATF or even motor oil isn't sufficient to disperse it. My $0.02.

emilio

chf11s is the equivalent to genuine Nissan strut fluid.I’m still working on the o ring

Turbobink

iTrader: (2)

Golly … if only you’d waited another 18 months to reply, I believe you’d be a Maxima.org record-holder.

chrome91

iTrader: (1)

Brought back a thread older than 1/4 of the members on here lmaoo

For the sake of lulz couldn't you just use hydraulic oil like you do with truck camper jacks?

GRNMAXDMON

iTrader: (1)

You know I am currently going through replacing my rear struts right now. I went through the FSM and read the following:

ASSEMBLY
Before assembly, keep away from dust.
Add correct amount of fluid. (Except shock absorber kit-cartridge)
Use "NISSAN GENUINE STRUT FLUID" or equivalent. Oil capacity is very important since performance of strut varies with amount of fluid in strut.
Capacity: 350ml (11.8 US fl oz, 12.3 lmp fl oz)

So it seems that if you are using aftermarket cartridges then there is no need to add strut fluid at all. I believe the strut fluid is only meant for the OEM style cartridge which I believe had open ports through out that allowed oil to go in through and do its job properly. But with sealed replacements like the KYB's that I am currently using then there is no need for strut fluid. Hence why it says (Except shock absorber kit-cartridge).