Time for new struts/shocks, But lack of knowledge....... Options

[hs2g]

Ok, my car is in total need of some new suspension. From what I know shocks and struts and basically the same thing correct? Well I don't know if I need some new ones for the back but the front is blown. I been researching and KYB GR-2's are only 47.95 per strut, so I could get the front fixed for about $150? Thats seems like a fairly cheap price. What do you guys think about these struts? Any other recommendations for around that price?

Also another thing, everytime I come to a slow stop, I hear some really nasty sound coming from the back. I think its the brakes but it sounds like nails scrtaching on a chalkboard. I know its not my brake pads because I checked them and brake pads are just speaky noises. This noise is really terrible like water moving around and nails scratching. Any ideas?

I just recently purchased some GT wheels of of a 01 celica. The tires are in good shape about 60% tread. After putting them on my steering wheel is starting to shake going about 30 to 60. And the tire noise is horrible. Everywhere I go I hear da-da-da-da-da-da-da-da-da-da-da-d-da-da-da-da-da-da-da . Its starting to frustrate me. Is it the tires not balance or aligned? But I don't see why balanced and allignment would help? Any Ideas? Would me original GT tires from my celica fit on those wheels? Its also 15's bit I don't know the width.

I'm planning on selling it this spring anyways. I'm getting a 00-01 GT-S!!! Hopefully

This post has been edited by hs2g: Mar 7, 2005 - 10:28 PM

[LewFX]

fronts are shock inserts (twist off cap, pull out old shock, insert new one, put cap back, etc) and backs are struts with shocks

[hs2g]

Is it really that easy? If it is I can I and a friend of mine could do it right? I don't have any experience what so every, but from what your saying it should be easy.

EDT: Also shock insert and strut inserts and the same things right?

This post has been edited by hs2g: Mar 7, 2005 - 10:29 PM

[LewFX]

struts are the housing, shocks are the inserts inside the housing, rears come with both, fronts usually come just as shock insert unless you buy monroes. i highly recommend the bilsteins, very stiff ride and lifetime warranty, on ebay they're $269 with $29 shipping for 2 rear struts and 2 front inserts...its not that hard however you need the right tools and patience.