LS - 4th Gen (2007-2017) Discussion topics related to the current flagship models LS460, LS460L and LS600H

change out struts? coil over or regular struts?

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Old 11-25-22, 09:59 AM
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diamente
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Default change out struts? coil over or regular struts?

2007 LS 460, 162K miles, RWD, regular suspension, no air suspension.

I am changing out front 2 lower control arms. One of the strut's bolt was welded. Hence I am asking

1. Should I change out struts, if so, do you recommend coil over?
2. If I need to change out struts, should I change all 4 struts? The back 2 looks fine.
3. If I need to change out struts, should I use the same mounts? The front 2 were changed out last time. The back 2 would have to be changed. I don't know their age since I am the 2nd car owner. I guess if I am getting the coil over, I don't need to buy additional mounts?

Front 2 struts and mounts where changed out 30K miles, 3.5 years ago. I bought struts from ebay from this seller. The part number I bought was REPL280519-Shock Absorber and Strut Assembly. This part number is no longer to be found but if I were to buy struts from this seller again, it will be this struct.

ebay strut link a set of 2 struts for $89. A good deal in my opinion.

I got my mounts from amazon. -KYB SM5779 - Strut Mount Kit
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01GQ8DK6U/ref=ppx_od_dt_b_asin_title_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01GQ8DK6U/ref=ppx_od_dt_b_asin_title_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

There is nothing wrong with the struts and mounts. Both are working very well now.

I am changing out control arms, one of the strut's bolt is welded. I could had changed out struts last time but the bolts were seized. So I had a mechanic change out front 2 struts. This mechanic had to use inductor heater to remove seized bolt. Previous car owner probably used an after market bolt on this strut. The mechanic didn't have the OEM bolt so I guess it's why he welded this bolt.

I have ordered a new bolt and nut.
Part # 90105-14182- bolt,
Part # 90179-14045-nut

parts diagram for reference

I talked to a few mechanics. That same mechanic who I took the car to wanted $180 to cut out bolts for 2 struts. Another mechanic told me to change out strut. Cutting, grinding will wear out the struts.
If it were going to be paying $90 for cutting bolt for one strut, I might as well just change out the struts.
I swear, some mechanic sees dollar sign you mention Lexus.
I refuse to be taken advantage of.

Should I get coil over? I don't like to lower my car. I prefer smooth and luxury ride over the bumps than feeling bumps. I found this ebay link coil over- a set of 4 , brand is maXpeedingrods



welded bolt.

other side of the same bolt, not welded.
Old 11-25-22, 11:49 AM
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sktn77a
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Unless you want to raise or lower the suspension, no point in getting coilovers. Not sure what the mechanic meant by "Cutting, grinding will wear out the struts." but it sounds suspect.

Stick with OEM springs and struts and you should be fine.
Old 11-25-22, 12:00 PM
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diamente
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Originally Posted by sktn77a
Unless you want to raise or lower the suspension, no point in getting coilovers. Not sure what the mechanic meant by "Cutting, grinding will wear out the struts." but it sounds suspect.

Stick with OEM springs and struts and you should be fine.
OK, sounds good.
one of the bolts on the strut is welded. To remove the weld, one mechanic suggested cutting the bolt off.

I thought they could just heat it and remove the weld. I think this is what they have to do.

Old 11-25-22, 01:45 PM
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Gerf
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Originally Posted by diamente
I think this is what they have to do. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NmsCrQ-7L0U
No, the weld has to be ground off the lower strut mount. why did it get welded like that in the first place? looks like someone tried to set the sway bar link on fire.
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Old 11-25-22, 02:39 PM
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diamente
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Originally Posted by Gerf
No, the weld has to be ground off the lower strut mount. why did it get welded like that in the first place? looks like someone tried to set the sway bar link on fire.
the mechanic told me the bolt is not the right bolt. it looks like i have to change out struts.
Old 11-27-22, 01:53 PM
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You can grind it off (and drill it out, if necessary). A little care and the strut will be fine.
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