acercomp71

Planning to replace front struts/strut parts. Not familiar with strut mounts for this car- just opened the box with KYB mount and there is a grey round part included in package. QUESTION- is this round plastic part the actual strut bearing or just a spacer, not a bearing?
Thanks.

KevMaster

Somehow the term bearing rings the bell something like a circulating part. However with struts mounts, the bearing is the plastic part that you get with strut mount kit. Something like this and this bearing stand alone cost more than $20



I would also recommend getting front springs rubber seat. Something like this to avoid metal to metal noise. Cost only about $10 a piece.

acercomp71

Yepp.. actual bearing is on upper picture, I actually brought the part to Nissan dealer for comparison and yes, this is it.
For those who go with KYB mounts, no need to purchase a bearing separately, it is included in package- thanks for clarification, Kev.

Also, if you anyone is replacing struts, give yourself a favor and replace all the rubber and the boots. Front strut rubbers are known to wear out quickly on this car and producing noise. There are 2 rubber insulators per strut-

lower insulator part# 54034-ZK00A
upper insulator part# 54035-8J000
boot part# 54050-8J000 but you can find an aftermarket boot if you want.


Happy New Year!

cfr94

Gonna be doing this real real soon Thanks for the part numbers and information.

djfrestyl

iTrader: (89)

Moog also includes bearings with their strut mounts. I've compared KYB vs Moog mounts, and I like Moog's quality better. I use them with all my suspension installs.

KevMaster

Thanks to you for providing part numbers. I have not experienced this but KYB mounts are not recommended for our rides. Moog is first choice then Monroe strut mount kit rather than KYB strut mount kit. They all comes with bearing anyway.

Longotter

Any ball park estimates of how many hours of labor to replace both front strut mount on a 2004 Maxima?

djfrestyl

iTrader: (89)

I'd guess at least two hours, but from experience it can be done within an hour. Where are you located?

KevMaster

The best labor quote I've got to install struts and shocks all around is $150 and that's because I have long term relationship with them as a customer to repair my car. Both front for $90 and both rear for $60. This work can be done at home to save $$$ but having no garage and during winter living in snowing area this is not bad price.

djfrestyl

iTrader: (89)

That's a pretty good price. Most shops charge 3-400 for this type of job, some even more.

My install price is about on par with the above.

KevMaster

Yeah first I thought he did not quote me right but then he gave me quote on paper showing the same price.....I more likely will go with them as soon as I finish collecting few more parts for my suspension. He did not even mind installing end links while he is at it.

djfrestyl

iTrader: (89)

That's a good deal, because OEM links are a pain to remove. Here in the NE they're always rusted and have a tendency to strip VERY easily.

mateo420247

Just make sure do not use kyb mounts, they are total garbadge...

Talon05

Having issueS with KYB struts or bearings. Would Monroe struts and shocks be a good recommendation for 2005 SE MAX.

the macedonian

what type of experience have you had with KYB ?

I've had Progress and KYB on my ride for over a year now with no issues and I take up car up north to the track when the weather permits here....

xorbitman

iTrader: (1)

I recommend sticking with original bearing plates....forget about the Moogs or KYB...better fit; I looked at all three and in the end I concluded that the originals were better quality.

Kryogen

replaced shocks 2 years ago and now spring seats and boots are torn... eh. replace all 3 when doing the job.
Original mount and bearing though, no issues...

Talon05

Keep getting a clunk noise from either side. Replaced the OEM with KYB 1 1/2 years ago and man this clunk is pissing me off bad. Every shop state there is no problem