Shock/Strut Advice

I need some advice about my shock/strut situation, my truck has 95k miles on the original Tokico rear shocks and drivers front strut, the passenger strut was replaced under warranty at 49k miles when I bought the truck used Toyota certified, now the front drivers strut is leaking and needs replacing, my question is should I just replace the strut with the same OEM tokico brand and let the stealer do it, I was quoted $320 for labor plus the strut cost plus tax. Or bite the bullet and replace all struts and shocks with aftermarket, ive had the Bilstein 4600 on my last truck and they held up over 100k no leaks or bushing issues the Bilsteins for my truck are $318 for all 4 pieces, my other option is to use the less costly KYB shocks the Gas-A-Just(monotube)$277 or the Generic OEM replacement Excel G(twin tube)$250. I don't want to pay to have one strut replaced then have the other original shocks/struts start to leak these Tokico struts/shocks have a 30k-70k life then they will leak. I can install the rears myself but will need installation for the front coilovers. I know the bilsteins 4600 are great durable expensive shocks but are the KYBs as durable for less cost. any input or experience appreciated.

 

I would personally go for the Bilsteins as I don't mind spending a little extra on something that will last much longer.

That being said there are several people on here (including myself) that have taken off their stock 4600s to put on a lift. If you don't mind buying lower mileage shocks/struts that could be an option for you.

 

yes thats my problem I have been out of work for a long while for family illness situation so the money isn't really there for extravagant purchases right now, but like you say the Bilsteins4600 I had twice really went the distance, im not quite sure if the KYBs are any better than the stock Tokicos as far as durability and leakages, i never had a 4600 ever leak or really wear out, but you pay the premium cost(worth it)

 

Sending you a PM

 

Bill, if you're in a financial pinch you might check out the classifieds here on the site. There is a pretty steady flow of guys selling their entire stock suspension with very low miles and you could probably pick up all 4 front coil overs and rear shocks for an extremely good deal...then when your finances improve look at the upgrade options.

 

I was looking at some they are usually the Factory TRD setups and these are not really as durable as the 4600 HD aftermarket ones, I had the factory bilsteins on a TRD gen1 truck that had them and they lasted shorter lifespan than these Tokicos, im afraid of spending time and energy on a short term solution.

 

Sending a PM about rear OME shocks I have laying around.