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What are the pro and cons of each shock for the rear on a 2003 SSEI? Which has the softest ride characteristics

There are really no pro's/con's of either. Both are good.

I've been told that KYB valves their shock 10-15% stiffer than stock.

The Monroe's are closer to an OE valving.

I installed the KYB's on my '01 and have been happy with them.


Thanks,
Ken

monroe max air is a direct fit and matches the stock setup.

I personally have the Gabriel Skyjackers on my 03 SE. They came with all of the hardware you will need to splice into the existing air lines etc... and so far after about 3,000 miles are still working flawlessly and I'm extremely happy with the ride. I would however suggest using the KYB mounts as they seem to be the strongest ones.

Just to clarify, the KYB's are also a direct fit and install in place of the OEM shocks, including the air-line connection.

If you buy the complete set that includes the new top mount (KYB-SR4116), they install in about 10 minutes a side (as long as the stupid spring nuts don't break when you're trying to take the old ones out..... )

Kersh wrote:Just to clarify, the KYB's are also a direct fit and install in place of the OEM shocks, including the air-line connection.

If you buy the complete set that includes the new top mount (KYB-SR4116), they install in about 10 minutes a side (as long as the stupid spring nuts don't break when you're trying to take the old ones out..... )

Drenching the lower bolts with Kroil, Aerokroil or PBblaster for a few days usually helps.

FWIW, I have the Monroes in a couple of cars and they're OK.

SR1002 are a direct bolt in, no modifications needed to install. Very easy might I mention. I am on my 2nd set of KYB's on my car (200K miles). Feel good, stiffer then originals which I like.

I had both, and while the KYBs are slightly stiffer, it's a good kind of stiff. The Monroes were noisy and clunky and barely lasted 50k miles.