04 Ls430 Front Shock Replacement

[lejl0406]

I bought 04 ls430 in singapore and currently live in newzealand, as you know the lexus is right-hand driving car in these countries. Recently to change both of front strut, I bought struts from a toyota dealer but found a new oem strut was too short.

The part numbers were same as 48510-50200 and same manufacturer, KYB as well. But new strut is about 3cm(1 inch) shorter than order one(63cm against 66cm, body of strut is same length but screw height is different).

My ls430 is without air suspension and without sport package.

These toyota people have no idea at all.

Is anyone who suggests opinion to fix this problem?

[1990LS400]

Maybe there isn't a problem. Maybe the rod is extending an additional 3 cm from the old shock absorbers due to wear. Can you just pull the rod further out of the shock absorber housing when you install it?

[lejl0406]

Thanks for instant reply, 1990LS.

I did try to pull it out with my friend, but it didnt move.

[steve2006]

New "shock absorbers" or dampers require priming before fitting this may be your problem.

Prime the shock absorber

Always prime the shock absorber by pulling and pushing the piston rod in and out several times before installation-this must be done with the shock absorber in the same position it will be in when installed under the vehicle (normally vertical).

Also don't forget the lower arm may have swung down lower than is the norm after disconnecting the old shock absorber.

Don't be offended but you haven't got the fronts and rears mixed up have you either physically or by part #

[steve2006]

I've just looked up the part # for the front shock absorbers and I get a different part # 48010-50110 this is for a RHD European model with the model type UCF30R-AEAGKW.

If you can provide the one on your car I will check the part # again.

[lejl0406]

I am sorry to all of you. The length of struts is same. When I put a coil on new strut, the rod was rising up to normal.

Thanks for your opinions and help.

It was pretty easy job, took about one hour to change both side by two people.

I thought changing air shocks would be really easy job because there is no coil(spring).

Releasing coil from strut is hardest job and took most of time.

Need 2 or 3 coil clamps and power tool to tighten bolts of clamps.