Shocks on my strada

[strada-caster]

I know there has been lotsa talk on here about this but I drive a strada and have to do my own research.

So, I emailed KYB and got back info I liked and didn't like.

Rear
North american(KG5438) cannot replace european(553103) (eye to eye is too short), but european can replace stock.

Front
North american(KG5433)/european(554074)/stock are all compatible, except north american has a lower damping rate. I've sent back another email to question how much...


I want to know, all you delicas out there are putting on north american versions as far as I know, and the effects seem to be great. Since the fronts are what I'd rather replace anyway, should I just grab a pair for the front and see how it goes? or does anyone suggest another route for me to follow?

Cheers.

[mararmeisto]

One question might be: is the Strada more like the StarWagon or more like the Montero. If the later, you might try that route.

Or you could take your ride to a decent 4x4 shop and they should be able to look at (and measure) the old one and actually recommend a replacement based on fit.

[TardisDeli]

Since you're on southern Vanc Island, I suggest email to John of Rocky Mountain Imports, he's outside Victoria, he specializes in JDM parts, he also supplies many of the mechanics. John is super knowledgeable, and is very honest, if he doesnt have the right info he will tell you rather than just making a guess which some shops might do. John's online ID here is RMI, but best to use his website www dot rockymountainimports.net phone 1-250-886-4900

If John doesnt have the part number handy, I like Mararmeisto's idea to get a good shop to measure the existing shocks -- including the amount of travel needed. For my L300, I know there are heaps of opinions, but guru Glen of CC Autos likes Monroe (from Napa or Lordco, cheap and easily available).

Cheers, Christine.

[Strada 92]

Shocks for Strada are exactly the same for a Dodge Power Ram 50,4x4, 1987-1993.Easily available in many brand in any good auto parts store.
I have Monroe Sensa-trac on mine,lifetime warranty.

[strada-caster]

Shocks for Strada are exactly the same for a Dodge Power Ram 50,4x4, 1987-1993.Easily available in many brand in any good auto parts store.
I have Monroe Sensa-trac on mine,lifetime warranty.

just to clarify, you mean ram 50, I believe the power ram 50 stopped after 1986 (atleast according to rockauto). Do you have your part numbers by any chance? just for double check.

How do the monroes absorb bumps in the rear. I wouldn't mind something softer in the rear so when I'm only in 2wd on FSR's the ass end doesn't kick out like a mule when I hit a bump or rut.

marmar: solid idea, but I probably won't take it that far. and I believe the strada is more like the delica. pajero/montero have spring/shock integration on all fours i think. the strada is just a simple shock on front and shock/leaf pack on the rear.

Tardis: RMI is definitely a good place for sourcing parts. I might give him a call.

[strada-caster]

Got an email back from KYB this morning stating don't bother using the north american version shocks. "they are an inadequate substitute"

Strada92. How does your ride feel?? does it lean alot during turns or was that improoved after new shocks were installed.

[Strada 92]

The ride is more stiff,less smooth.I must say that i added a leaf spring on each side and that i run on p265/70r15 with 27 psi.
I like this set-up.For parts number,call any Canadian Tire,that's where i bought them.
Power Ram 50 is the 4wd version of the Ram 50.Power ram 50=4wd Ram 50=2wd

[strada-caster]

Strada92, thanks for clearing that up.