Im installing new shocks on my 04 this weekend. I noticed this round metal and rubber piece on top of the spring and what the shock bolts too. This piece looks like it could go bad at some point. So I was wondering if somebody has replaced it when they installed new shocks or had one go bad at some point?

 

I am assuming you are talking about the bearing plate? When ever I do Struts now I just buy the Quick Strut Assembly. It costs the same as replacing the Strut, Spring and Bearing Plate and it comes assembled and makes the job 10 times easier and safer. Just pop out the old one and pop in the new one. No dealing with disassembly or compressing springs. Like I said you shell out a little more because you have to replace everything but not having to deal with a "Widow Maker" makes it worth it to me.

http://www.napaonline.com/Search/Det...+59999+2999999

 

Thank you f150ryder2k8, im talking about this. http://www.rockauto.com/catalog/moreinfo.php?pk=1028464

 

That is the spring insulator it goes inside the bearing plate (the piece on top of it) they are usually sold together and on a lot of cars one single piece. If yours looks worn I would defiantly replace it since you are going to have everything apart anyway.

If you are just trying to replace your stock suspension I would go with my original recommendation and get the Quick Strut Assembly. That KYB Strut mount kit is around $50 each and you still need to buy your struts and will be using old springs. The Quick Assembly is only $150 and includes the mount kit, strut and springs. Also saving a ton of your time and safety since there is no strut dis-assembly and re-assembly.

Now if you are looking to upgrade to a more rugged or Off-Road suspension, than you will have to buy everything piece by piece and would defiantly recommend replacing those mounts if your going to be showing your truck some tougher terrain.