OK, the popping up front from the GCs has GOT to go. What is this duct tape thing I keep hearing about? Is that in place of the black rubber rings they give you to insualte the collar or something?

You can do a search for the full method. This is the way I remember it: Wrap the shock area under the collar with a layer of duct tape then smother in RTV silicone sealant (ultra-blue i think), slide the GC collar over the mess, it may need a love tap from a rubber hammer, and let sit. This does work in place of the included rubber O rings. It is only a matter of weeks before I try this out for myself.

When I did mine, I used the provided o-rings, but wraped them in black electrical tape when needed to ensure a tight fit. It is very important that the sleeve fit snugly over the strut body.

I did the duct tape deal but the thing still pops but no squeak.


Bryan

Duct tape works best. It is real important to lay it on smooth. Wrap the bottom portion and leave about a 1/4 inch of space. This makes it easier as the tape get thicker. Test fit the collar until it slides on nicely (but loose). Then do the same thing up top. Don't make it to tight at this stage. When the duct tape is even (but light tension all the way around) do this. Take a long piece of tape and lay it from the bottom of the duct tape all the way to the top of the strut shaft. do this all the way around the strut. You will now find that the collar will NOT slide on. Lubricate with the silicone. Hold on to the tape that is higher and tape the GC collar on (with a rubber mallet). The long tape prevents snags and keeps the duct tape from moving around. The key is to lay all the layers on smooth and even. Then stoping right when you have tension before putting on the long pieces. Can you tell I am picky as can be???

Steve

Edit: Look inside the collar. You will see a lip. Place this up so that it doesn't snag the tape.

Here is the insructions on installing the GC: http://www.nissanperformancemag.com/september01/suspension.shtml

This was for project 200SX and the installation method was developed by none other than Mike K.

I used a lot of duct tape and a hydraulic press. No noises yet 1 year after. :D I wonder if I will be able to get them off when I have to replace these shocks. hmm :(

I have had my new suspension for about 2 weeks now, and the duct tape method is the way to go. Dont forget to silicone the top and bottom of the GC collar as well, you dont want shit getting in there....

good luck!

Done.

I use electrical tape instead. I did not silicome everything up, because I would like to get it all apart in the event a shock blows on me. I may go back and half-ass some tape on top to keep trash out.

All the rubber things had worked their way to the bottom, leaving no support up top. Under hard cornering, the top of the sleeve was banging on the top of the shock.

Problem solved. Just took a test drive and nothing but silence from the front :)

Now, to work on the squeeks in the back....

Originally posted by MaddMatt
Now, to work on the squeeks in the back....

Get the ShigSpeed rear mounts. They eliminate that huge bushing on top of the rear assembly that causes most of the squeaking.