What's A Good Conversion Kit For The Air Shock System?

ftuber · May 29, 2013

I have a 2001 LS 430 and the airshock system is failing. I've read a bit about converting to std shocks and have found 3 websites touting their kits but have no idea which is the best, or if they're comparable, or what. My mechanic is unfamiliar with the various sites and though this is not supposed to be a difficult conversion, I'd like to get the best one for ride and longevity. Any help?

steve2006 · June 2, 2013

Welcome to the LOC.

IIRC KYB are standard on Lexus models.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/KYB-4-GR2-SHOCKS-LEXUS-LS430-01-to-06-/120648486775?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&fits=Make%3ALexus%7CModel%3ALS430&hash=item1c1735cf77&vxp=mtr

jainla · June 13, 2013

Strutmasters is pretty reputable but I've never ordered anything from them. Stay away from Arnott many people have said their customer service is terrible. I think the Strutmasters springs are pre-compressed so they are easier to install.

Last I remember the air shocks were about $800 a piece on parts.com. They are very easy to install for the fronts, a little less so for the rears. Everybody who has done the conversion says the ride is different; some people think it's better, some worse.

My mechanic noticed one of the struts leaking on the front of the LS and I've been putting off replacing it as the airbags are still ok. I'm probably going to just bite the bullet and replace the two front shocks sometime this summer.