2005-2009 Outback Suspension FAQ

[alain59]

I want to lower my 05 2.5i outback (euro spec, with SLS rear suspension)
I am not going lower than standard legacy, I just want specB like handling

after a lot of reading my part list comes donw to the following :

1) bilstein B6 sport struts (review on lgt.com)
part numbers on Teilekatalog
front : 35-118305 & 35-118312
rear : 24-118323

2) KYB front spring : RA2811 (legacy 2.5i spec)

3) King spring rear spring : KSRS-29 + legacy type rear strut mont
see post #212 (and followong from dan04103) in this thread on lgt.com : Official Lowered Outback Thread - Page 15 - Subaru Legacy Forums

4) legacy SW type bump stop, front and rear

Could any one tel me if I missed anything ?

[Sideways the Seven]

I do believe that's everything.

[alain59]

cheers

[eteled]

I've decided to replace the struts and have read through the various threads, but I got a few questions yet.

I have a 2005 2.5i with Rallitek rear sway and overload spring already installed. I'm going to replace the stock struts with 341276's rear and 339099/339098 front. For the record, I've never had an over steer issue with the sway/spring combo.

So my questions are:

Can I reuse all of the strut assembly pieces and just swap new struts for old?

Is there a good 3rd gen. DIY (with pictures) for the front and rear? Brucey has a good DIY for both, but it's for 2nd gen. Can I use his guides or are the cars too different?

Anyone got a part number for the most user friendly spring compression tool that I can loan from autozone or pepboys?

Thanks

[dundicut]

Wow, long thread, but thanks for all the helpful information. I have one question that I couldn't grok from my reading...

I have an 09 OBW, no suspension-related mods, and I'm not looking to do any anytime soon. I am, however, looking to replace the shocks/struts. Using the opening post to this thread as a guide, I've been doing some research. So I think I have decided on the KYB Excel-G. I've followed one of the recommended links in that post and at justsuspension.com, there are strut boots and strut mounting kits listed for the front and rear, respectively, in addition to the shocks/struts.

Doing comparison shopping at partsgeek.com I find the same price, but no mention there about the boots and mounting kits. I can't find any info relating to when these might be required and when they might be optional? It will amount to $70 difference, so I'm trying to get armed with the best information possible before pulling the trigger.

Any advice?

[tdelker]

Just suspension had the best price for me by a long shot.

You don't need boots or mounting kits if you are reusing the old ones, which you should be able to do for an 09.

[Bimmer]

Originally Posted by dundicut

I can't find any info relating to when these might be required and when they might be optional?

AFAIK, the Excel-G is the same as the GR2, and you don't need the boots or the mounts.

In fact, the boots might rub on the tires (they would on my 235s).

[dundicut]

Originally Posted by tdelker

Just suspension had the best price for me by a long shot.

You don't need boots or mounting kits if you are reusing the old ones, which you should be able to do for an 09.

FWIW, justsuspension and parts geek had the exact same price.

Definitely thanks for the info (and the poster below you too). I will go ahead skip the extras.

[eteled]

FWIW I did the front and rears over thanksgiving. Brucey's demos work just fine.

I reused all the parts, but I probably shouldn't have.

The right rear top hat (where the two blots are) was bent at the bolts. It looked like someone had over-torqued the bolts, sucking the bolts into the holes, bending the "flat" mounting surface. Previous owner could have sideswiped something with the right rear tire, bending the top hat (there are indications this happened).

To further complicate the problem, one of the bolts busted free from it's weld. It didn't fall off, but would spin freely. I super-glued it in place

[Diamond Dawg]

Hi guys, I'm from the uk and just looking at some options regarding renewing my outbacks suspension.

I currently have a set of nokian winter Tyres, but I'm wanting a little bit more clearance under the arches and body so that I could fit some slightly larger AT Tyres for the summer months.

I have seen the +1" spacers and they would probably ship them to the uk, unless anyone knows of any options over here? I was going to couple this with new springs and dampers to renew the feel of the car. Kyb are an option, but is it better getting spacers, or should I/are there any longer springs and dampers to fit instead?

Any info is appreciated guys.