Strut Insulators (why do they tear)

[MaximaGuy]

I never understood why strut insulators would wither and tear off so frequently when back in the 90s everything lasted atleast 2 strut replacements.
On my Lexus OEM strut boot tore in 60K miles and begs to ask how come - understand they are exposed to the elements so are CV and PS boots.
Any recommendations/brand as I am about to replace my front struts

 

[Kira]

Do you mean the "accordion" things which protect the piston or the insulating/mounting plate -often with a bearing- which sets against the inside of the fender?

I have 2 boots from my 70 series Volvo. If they'll fit (big question) you can have them for postage.
Volvo pn 9140068 ~3" in diameter, ~5" long, 13 accordion folds.
These are embossed "EDPM"-a better material

Jegs and carparts.com have 'em too.

 

[MaximaGuy]

Thanks for suggesting, the Lexus strut boots are different they hang over the spring. They not only insulate from noise but also provide cover for the strut shaft.

 

[50yr Street Mech]

Got the same problem. The boots USE to last a long time back in the 80's-90's. No more. Aggravates me too. There just making them like garbage now I suppose. I've gone as far as using black duct tape with zip ties to patch them up, rather than take it all apart. The struts themselves were fine, but you have to protect the strut shaft somehow. Actually, the duct tape lasted like 2 years !

 

[Auto tech]

Today's auto parts in general suck big-time even compared to what I was hanging before COVID

 

[50yr Street Mech]

I agree with that statement. Nobody knows where parts are manufactured anymore... " Globally Sourced " has been on plenty of parts I've used.

 

[MaximaGuy]

And more aggravating is online stores don’t even know what they sell until you receive them and it’s not compatible!! The product description and pictures are all wrong!!