I think the only reason KYB has a decent rep is that there aren't that many that are installed. Lots of people do Monroe. I've had good luck and bad luck with Monroe. I think I had a set once where the strut mount was no good, didn't even really know til I changed them out and a noise I heard all the time went away. There's also plenty of stories of people hating KYB but not as many. I think it maybe be because it's proportional to what they sell, not that they're much better than Monroe. I don't know why Ford can't make springs that don't break. I had that happen on my 2001 Ford Taurus and they even had a recall for it. The recall wasn't to replace the springs, but just to put a shield over it so that if/when the spring broke, it didn't puncture your tire.
Why not pick up an impact? They're not that much... The 2767 is probably overkill for a car, but might come in handy with the trucks. The mid torque is basically like a regular air impact gun, it's a decent deal, comes with the battery.
The 2767 M18 FUEL high torque impact wrench with friction ring eliminates the need to use a pneumatic tool for those stubborn and rusted bolts by delivering 1,000 ft./lbs. of fastening torque and 1400
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The MILWAUKEE M18 FUEL 1/2 in. Mid-Torque Impact Wrench w/ Friction Ring delivers the best power to weight ratio, most access in tight spaces, and faster removal speed. It provides 650 ft. lbs. of nut-busting
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