97 Legacy Outback: Are Monroe gasmatic struts OK?

I'm assuming Monroe has no website or you would have had your question answered there.

The KYB GR-2 is what most folks use when replacing struts as a maintenance operation (as opposed to doing it as a suspension upgrade). I know for a fact that these are designed to replace OEM struts and won't change the ride height. The description page can be found here:

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I think Monroes are pretty crappy and don't last...try KYB or Koni. TG

Thanks for the feedback everyone. I had Sears do the work (not enough time or motivation to do better) and either the Monroe's are better than you think or more likely I can't tell the difference between good and crappy struts! :-) I'll report back if/when they get replaced.

PS We've already put 1000 miles and some high speed cornering on them and no complaints. However, I *THINK* I can hear them hiss when we go over a small drop (as opposed to bump). Just odd or a problem?

I had a Buick where the Monroe's were much better than the original struts (I contrasted my car with the new struts with a nearly new rental that wallowed like a whale).

Just curious... about how much did the struts cost? (including installation) I got a quote for $1200 from a shop, $600 from the dealer. Can Sears do it for less? I too am not worried about high performance, however I would like something that will last a few years.

Will M

It's not your imagination. The hiss you hear over small bumps at low speeds is normal. Most struts and shock absorbers do this, my OEM struts included. Also indicates that your hearing is still good.