Besides Bilsteins...are KYB shocks any good? - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

Carrameow · #1 09-25-2002, 12:45 PM

Please dont misunderstand I love to maintain my mercedes at the highest lvel, but this summer I bought an impact wrench, air ratchet and I am rebuilding an engine.

My budget is tight. My daughter wants to go to college.

My cars are both 260 K and I would like to run each another 100K at least. They need new shocks. I cant afford Bilsteins. Can someone recommend a different model? Are KYB shocks (ala Performance Products) any good.

Credentials:

tvpierce · #2 09-25-2002, 02:20 PM

Boge Turbo-Gas are very good (not as good as Bilstein). I just put them on all 4 corners of my Volvo 945 Turbo. They give a nice tight ride, and they're "guaranteed for life". They should offer substantial savings over Bilstein. BTW: they sell them right here at Fast Lane. The prices are usually very competitive, and the service is excellent.

Just my 2-cents.

Jeff Pierce

#3 09-25-2002, 02:23 PM

Carameow,

I have KYB's on my 124 and I am very disappointed with them.

On my 123 cars, however, I always ran the best Sears Gas Shocks that they had. They served me well, and they always gave me new ones at no cost.

They are not as good as the Bilstiens, but very cost effective.

I have not bought any of these in five years are so, and I suspect that they have changed their product lines, so proceed carefully at Sears.

Good Luck,

dtanesq · #4 09-25-2002, 02:39 PM

I second Larry's comments about the KYBs. You get what you pay for. I tried a set on an Audi quattro - ruined the handling and went to Bilsteins.

I understand your need for economizing, though. Good luck.

jsmith · #5 09-25-2002, 04:04 PM

have a friend that put them on his Camry. he's blown one twice already. they may be warrantied for life but the labor ain't free. i'm sure the bilsteins are worth the difference. oh yeah, i emailed a distributor for pricing on KYB's on my w124 and it came back saying "not recommended for your car"...

downsmith · #6 09-25-2002, 05:38 PM

I don't know about those guys who sell shocks...I have a 126 and I was also told "Not Recommended for your car" THEN WHY DO THEY MAKE THEM??????

I have KYB's on my 126 for a year now and I am very happy with them. Maybe I just do not demand much...Don't tell my wife!

yal · #7 09-25-2002, 05:42 PM

Definately try the prices on Boge shocks before you settle for the KYBs.

#8 09-25-2002, 08:03 PM

I just replaced my shock (original) at 225K. I installed OE shocks (I think they are Boge) and got the original ride back.
And they were less expensive than any other make I shopped for.
jackD

Ken300D · #9 09-25-2002, 08:07 PM

My 1982 300D has a set of KYB shocks all around put in there by one of the previous owners.

They are fine for me - they hold the car up fine - the ride suits me OK. I'm not too much into performance with a 300D.

Bilsteins are 15% off at Performance Products on a special sale they are having.

Not having any experience with Bilsteins in a W123, maybe I don't know what I'm missing.......

Ken300D

rdanz · #10 09-25-2002, 08:52 PM

If Your current worn out shocks are Bilstein "WITHOUT" the MB emblem there guaranteed for life. It's worth a look.

JDUB · #11 09-25-2002, 09:36 PM

Don't even consider purchasing KYB shocks. I hated the ride and they felt worn out after three months. After 2 years the right rear was leaking oil and squeaking so bad it was embarassing. Buy the Boge Sachs, you won't regret it.

haasman · #12 09-25-2002, 10:26 PM

I have installed gas KYB shocks on two different 123 body cars. In both instances I kicked myself for being cheap and not getting Bilstein.

KYB's years ago (20) were great! I had a friend install them on his old 220SE sedan. Wow I thought. So about 7 or so years ago I installed them on the 123's.

My net advice: Don't

william rogers · #13 09-25-2002, 10:43 PM

my 81 SD had new KYB's on it when I bought it so I left them on.My 500SE has Bilstiens of unknown age It's ride and handling are much crisper,I put Gabreials on my old 240 D and it's fine on the back roads where it's driven.Will go with Bilstiens on SD when KYB's show any leaks......
William Rogers......

mcaro · #14 09-26-2002, 08:51 AM

For what it's worth, I too installed KYB shocks on my 123 300D on all 4 points and would not do it again. They were fine to start but after 100K the car just didn't feel as tight as now with over 140K on them I feel they are in need of replacement.

I also understand the need for economy on the purchase, that is what drove me to buy the KYB's 4 years ago. Many have already responded that they did not like the KYB shock. I would say take others advice and check out the Boge shocks, they might be a nice middle ground.

Mark

csnow · #15 09-26-2002, 11:48 AM

I've had bad luck with KYB on a variety of cars. Never again.
Only ok at first, then they don't last, certainly not 100k.
You won't really save anything if they last only half as long.

For front on 240D I show:
KYB- $33
Boge- $46
Bilstein C-$70

I'd spring for the Boge. I've seen them last 100k+.
You can send your daughter to a state school, and this can be her first car. Perhaps the shocks will still be good...

Best of luck.