KYB Suspension Kits

RockAuto is now offering KYB Shocks and Struts in a convenient kit. These kits include two KYB shocks or struts as well as two mounts and/or bellows. Following the "Info" link next to the part number will show you a full list of the components included with each specific kit.

Why should you install new mounts and bellows when replacing shocks or struts? Worn mounts can cause increased road noise and harsh vibrations, while cracks or tears in old bellows can allow dirt and water to enter, damaging your new struts.

Benefits of purchasing a kit:

• Lengthen strut/shock life by keeping dirt and other contaminants out
• Reduce road noise and vibration transmitted through the suspension
• Save time by having the parts at hand to perform a more complete service, better ensuring success now and preventing problems down the road
• Install matched parts, designed to work together to meet or exceed OE performance

2005 Toyota Corolla, 1999 BMW 328I, 2012 Chevrolet Silverado...whatever you drive, chances are you can find the KYB “Strut & Mount Kit” and/or “Shock Absorber & Mount Kit” you need in the “Suspension” category of the RockAuto catalog!

Forum of the Month

Ford Expedition Forum is devoted to all things Ford Expedition. You will find topics relating specifically to the 1st, 2nd or 3rd generation Expedition or general topics regarding the interior, exterior, suspension, electrical and so much more! With over 15,000 members contributing to discussions, if you have a question another member is bound to have your answer.

Whether you have advice to give, need technical help, or just want to show off your ride, join the Ford Expedition Forum. Join for free today and become a part of a forum driven by enthusiasts!

Repair Mistakes & Blunders

The first car that I rebuilt was a 1959 Ford Galaxie Fairlane 500 in 1983, when I was in high school.  I drove the car frequently, but, could only go short distances as it would overheat all the time.  I tried EVERYTHING but could not fix it: changed thermostats, tried no thermostat, changed hoses, verified that the cylinder heads and block weren't clogged up, etc.

I finally had to sell it about 18 months after I finished restoring it as I could not drive it anymore.  Fast forward to 1986 or 1987.  I had a 1978 Chevy Camaro Z-28.  The fan failed on it so I swapped it out for a new one. When I was installing the fan, I realized that when I had installed the fan on my beloved Ford Galaxie, I had installed it backwards!  It was blowing air on the radiator instead of pulling air through it, thus leading to the overheating! 

I never should have sold the Galaxie.

Bill in New Jersey

Tell us about your most infamous auto repair blunder or unconventional fix. Use your woe to help others avoid similar mistakes or share off-the-wall solutions that worked (at least for a while!). Please e-mail your story to flamur@rockauto.com. Include your mailing address and if you would like a RockAuto T-Shirt (please let us know your shirt size) or Hat if we publish your story. See the T-Shirts and Hats under Tools & Universal Parts in the catalog. The story will be credited using only your first name and your vague geographic location (state, province, country, continent, etc.) so you can remain semi-anonymous!

Automotive Trivia

Which brand of spark plugs were original equipment on Ford cars in the 1960s?

A. Autolite
B. Champion
C. Motorcraft


Answer below

Rust Pressure

I wrote in the Early February newsletter about replacing both the brake calipers on my family’s 1992 Dodge B250 van after the old caliper pistons repeatedly seized up and failed to release pressure on the brake pads. A kind reader wrote to suggest that I should also check to make sure none of the van’s brake lines were being squeezed by rust.

Since my youth spent in Detroit attempting to hold a rusty 1977 Dodge together with Bondo, I tend to think of rust as something that weakens steel and turns it to dust. However, rust has another way to cause mischief. As the reader pointed out, rust bubbles can extend outward from the base metal and take up more space than the original metal did. Layers of rust built up on a brake hose bracket or other brake fitting can actually push hard enough on a brake hose to impede the flow of brake fluid. Hydraulic pressure may still activate the brake pads, but once the brake pedal is released, a brake hose squeezed by rust restricts the release of brake fluid pressure. The brake pads stay pressed against the brake rotor, causing heat, wear, drop in fuel economy, steering pulling to one side or other problems.

I checked the brackets supporting the brake lines on my Dodge van and did not find significant rust build up. A good wire brushing and fresh paint can restore some brake hardware. Brake hydraulic hoses compressed by rust may have lost their shape and need to be replaced.

A master mechanic and shop owner recently told me another place to watch for rust exerting pressure is the lug nuts. Some original equipment lug nuts are steel clad with a layer of chromed metal. Rust builds up on the inner lug nut and slightly bulges out the chrome cladding. Maybe the next time a tire goes flat, the vehicle owner discovers the lug nut wrench no longer fits the lug nuts because they are swollen with rust. In the RockAuto catalog, find new brake lines under "Brake/Wheel Hub" and new lug nuts, including locking lug nuts, under "Wheel/Tire".

Tom Taylor,
RockAuto.com

To read more of Tom's articles, click this link and choose from story titles on the Newsletter Archives page.

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