Shock Changes - Questions

[Mattsvtcobra]

So my new front shock (kyb361005)is not fitting the retainer cap of the assembly like the original Gabriel does. It is allowing it to move side to side in the tube. Any ideas?

[spdbrake]

If I remember correctly the included cup is dropped over the strut cartridge once installed (increases the OD of the strut) then the gland nut is installed. The cartridge sat a bit low in mine and I had to add a 1-2 fender (large diameter) washers to shim it up where the gland nut would contact and secure the top.

See link for Strut, Cup, Gland nut, Shock top nut pic.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...?ie=UTF8&psc=1

[Mattsvtcobra]

I was just coming in to reply... I was looking at that cap upside down and assumed it was a shim for the bottom... but it is for the top! Thanks

[SBSerpent]

So then for the rear, which KYB is recommended? KG5529 or 343144? This is going on a 2011 build that still has the stock Gabriels. The car itself is also bone stock as it came from BDR. 4500 miles on the odometer.

[spdbrake]

The KG5529 has a higher Nitrogen pressure than the 343144 and as such should have a higher compression resistance. I can't really say for the dampening rates as that is regulated by orifice sizes and fluid viscosity. Either will fit.

[SBSerpent]

Would you then say that the KG5529 lends itself to s stiffer ride? Less travel on the upwards motion of the wheel when responding to road conditions?

Iconic has the Excel-G (343144) on their website as a direct replacement.

[spdbrake]

Possibly yes the KG5529 may be a bit stiffer but I doubt you'd really feel it.
Keep in mind the original application on the Rear shocks is VW Thing, Bus, Beetle. Front struts are VW Vetta. Not in the realm of high performance.