Tegger wrote:
> v <vikram@gmail.com> wrote in
> news:1193441657.926058.217330@57g2000hsv.googlegro ups.com:
>
>>> Are the OEM's just the inserts while the aftermarkets are body and
>>> insert?
>> That was my initial suspicion. My understanding is that both are
>> complete struts (not the full assembly ie without the spring, new
>> mount but still the complete strut). My knowledge here is fairly
>> limited so I'll point you in the direction of the diagram of the OEMs
>> on Honda's website. Here is link to the diagram
>>
>> http://estore.honda.com/epc/images/p...A01/Estore/ill
>> ustrations1/S5A3B2800.png
>>
>> The part which I am referring to is part number 5 (and 6) in the
>> diagram. My understanding is that the insert would be a inner portion
>> of part number 5 and is also an option to be purchased separately.
>> However, my preference is to go for the replacement of the complete
>> strut.
>>
>
>
> That diagram is a bit vague, having two part numbers pointing to the same
> location.
>
> I think you'd better call your local dealer to clarify.
>
> Generally speaking, OEM is far superior to anything produced for the
> aftermarket.

that's definitely true most of the time. however, with kyb and tokico
shocks & struts, they're at least as good as or even better build
quality than oem. of course, tokico aim mainly for the "sport" market,
so the ride may be too harsh for a daily driver, but the quality is
definitely there. kyb gr2's ride the same or just a little better than
oem, last excellently, and are cheaper.

and both these are made in japan - a lot of oem honda shocks and struts
sold here are made here. having recently bought oem shocks for my crx,
i found them to be a mix of made in japan and made in usa. the quality
of the ones made stateside is close, but not quite as good. with
hindsight, i'd have bought kyb's like i have on my civic.


> And there is no point in replacing quality OEM strut bodies
> with questionable aftermarket just to get new inserts in the purchase.

you don't have an option in this case - they come as the complete unit.


>
> Be sure of what the price covers before you commit yourself. Remember that
> you must replace BOTH shocks in the same axle set. You cannot replace just
> one of them.
>