[Skidd]

This might seem like an obvious answer. And, in fact, I'm starting to think it really is obvious. But, I'm looking to once again re-open the investigation I started in this thread
http://www.rs25.com/forums/showthread.php?t=75554

I'm trying to determine if there is a logical reason that Tokico specified that their HTS002 struts only fit up to MY98. What changed in 98-99 that might cause them to not certify the HTS002 as fitting all model of GC6/8 Impreza?

Possible Reasons:
1. Brake Line Mounting Tab on Strut changed?
2. ABS sensor line routing?
3. Spring Seat Different?

But, I can't help but think, that if the GC line of Impreza had the same strut geometry and mounting design for all years, then it should fit for all years? Yea?

 

[Skidd]

I know that Subaru changed how the ABS sensor ring was designed in 98-99. I understand they went from a sensor ring on the axle, to a sensor ring on the hub. But, this can't have caused a change the strut could it? Subaru didn't change something in the way the spindle is designed just to change how the ABS reads it's signal?

 

[Skidd]

More evidence that proves ... uh... I dunno... that it should fit?

Front Spring from Subaru shows same spring model# for 93-01
http://subarupartsforyou.com/cp_partlistbymod.php?model=Impreza&subcat=Springs+Coil,+Front

Rear Spring from Subaru shows same spring model# 93-01
http://subarupartsforyou.com/cp_partlistbymod.php?subcat=Springs+Coil,+Rear&model=Impreza

That should eliminate the idea of a different spring seat. Thats good news.

Front Struts shows ONLY 98-01 for all RS&OBS
http://subarupartsforyou.com/cp_partlistbymod.php?subcat=Struts,+Front&model=Impreza
But, at least it shows the 98 the same as the 01. Then, the 97 uses a different model#? No ABS in 97? And obviously the L is a different model# from the RS. I expect that's a valving change and not a strut body change?

Rear Struts shows different model #s for the RS model!!?? 99-01 is different # than 98RS?
http://subarupartsforyou.com/cp_partlistbymod.php?subcat=Struts,+Rear&model=Impreza
Why?

If SOA shows so much overlap, I honestly can't see why the Tokico strut should not fit. But... ah heck.. I don't think I've answered any of my questions with this post.

 

[Skidd]

Still more fodder to fuel this question.
This image shows a comparo between a Tokico D-Spec for a WRX, and the OEM Strut.

Notice the bolt hole at the bottom of the strut. It's for the ABS wire right? My brain is failing in my old age, but I seem to recall my 00RS having a bolt hole for the ABS wire also. So, the question is, does the <98 have that bolt hole? If not, it could be just that trivial of a difference in the HTS002 .

Then there this post
http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/showthread.php?p=23129191#post23129191
That claims

'93-'98 HTS002's are the exact same shock as the DSP-10's, just imported under a different model # because they're not specifically made for domestic models. The fronts should be the same as any other GC-specific shock...but the rears use a single-eyelet for the bottom mounting point because (i assume) that's what the older drum-brake Imprezas might've used(??)

Any idea what he is talking about? "Single-Eyelet"?

 

[Skidd]

Oh I think that is the difference. The older stuff has a bracket that goes on the strut to knuckle bolt the newwer stuff has a welded nut on to the strut body. That is the only difference.

Your talking about that ABS wire mounting point right?