Hi all,
 
I've recently changed all 4 shock absorbers however I have discovered a clunking/knocking noise coming from the rear of the car regardless if I'm driving or just bouncing the car up and down in the garage. I suspect its an issue with the strut tops/mounts, and I've talked to my mechanic who also thinks the same. Just to be sure (can never be too sure!) I've posted a video of the noise which occurs on both struts to see what everyone else here thinks about it.
 
Link to video
 
Cheers,
Nick

Did you replace the shock inserts or the complete strut?

Carmikey
Did you replace the shock inserts or the complete strut?

Just the inserts

Sounds like the inserts are moving inside the strut then?

When I reassembled them there was ~3mm movement up and down inside the strut. Would it be as simple as adding a few washers (or similar) to act as a spacer?

What inserts did you fit?
The gland nut should be torqued down onto the insert, and therefore there should be no internal movement.
 
 

They're just KYB Excel-Gs, and the gland nut is torqued to spec though there is still a little bit of movement :/

xeon8
When I reassembled them there was ~3mm movement up and down inside the strut. Would it be as simple as adding a few washers (or similar) to act as a spacer?

Yes, normally they come with 2 x spacers (washers).  Sometimes you can get away with just one, but I've often found that the 2 need to be installed.  If they is any play - movement you will get a knocking sound.  Ive seen it a few times now.

Is this a problem unique to the excel g

I fitted agx's on mine and it didn't come with washers and tightened ok

TomsMR2
Is this a problem unique to the excel g

I fitted agx's on mine and it didn't come with washers and tightened ok

Not all require them.  If the spacers / washers dont come in the kit, more than likely dont require them.  Its only for the inserts that are slightly shorter in length.  The units (shocker inserts) probably suits a variety of Toyota's eg, camry etc.  I know Monroe GT inserts are in this boat.
 
From my experience,  If the inserts come with spacers / washers, I would be inclined to installing one if not both.
 
Then when doing up the flange nut, if it torques down with some thread on the tube still remaining - then it will be fine.  If the flange nut tightens down all the way down the treaded tube, then I would ensure spacers are installed.