Shock absorbers for come in a variety of sizes and configurations. Some of the different designs from TOKICO are shown here. The blue units are TOKICO's HP series of premium non-adjustable performance shocks and struts. They are designed to offer superior performance and traction with ride quality that is equal to or superior to the original ride.

Conventional shock absorbers are among the simplest and oldest of shock designs. They are common on many trucks, older cars, and a few newer cars. They are also one of the least expensive shocks.

Struts are units that combine the shock absorber with a stressed part of the suspension. The strut allows auto manufacturers to eliminate the upper control arm and upper ball joint. They use a large diameter piston rod and are quite a bit larger and heavier than conventional shock absorbers. Most struts also combine the lower spring perch or seat into their construction.

Strut cartridges were developed as replacements for rebuildable struts. While they are still being used, most newer cars use what are called sealed or non-rebuildable struts.

Spring seat, coilover, and coil-around are all terms used to describe this shock absorber. While they look like struts, they are actually shock absorbers with spring seats mounted on the body. They are not only smaller than struts overall, their piston rods are 25% to 60% smaller than struts.

For the serious enthusiast, TOKICO offers a range of 5 position adjustable shocks/struts called Illumina. With these shocks/struts the owner can make adjustments to change the handling and ride quality of the vehicle.

This strut is an example of a 5 position adjustable unit. Photo to the right displays the adjustment dial on the top of the unit. The Illumina series is available for a selected range of sports-type cars and sedans. For more information see the adjustable shocks page.

A series of spring/shock kits for lowered suspensions are also available from TOKICO. These matched kits are a great way to improve the appearance and handling of your car.