The 1985 Honda CRX Si is a beloved classic, known for its lightweight chassis and nimble handling. Over time, front suspension components wear out, leading to sloppy steering, uneven tire wear, and a rough ride. Whether you’re restoring your CRX to factory condition or upgrading for better performance, knowing the right parts is essential. This guide covers the key front suspension parts for the 1985 CRX Si, including struts, springs, control arms, bushings, and sway bars, along with compatibility notes and practical advice.
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Pair Set of 2 Front Newparts Suspension Struts For Honda Civic 1984-1987 CRX 1.5 Si HF NEW
Front Struts and Shocks
The front suspension of the 1985 CRX Si uses MacPherson struts. The strut assembly includes the shock absorber, spring seat, and mounting hardware. Worn struts cause bouncing, nose diving under braking, and poor handling.
OEM Replacement Options
Original equipment struts are no longer produced, but aftermarket brands like KYB, Monroe, and Gabriel offer direct replacements. The most recommended is the KYB Excel-G (part number 333097 for the left, 333098 for the right). These gas-charged struts provide a ride quality close to factory and are priced reasonably. Monroe OESpectrum (part numbers 171268L and 171269R) is another solid choice.
Performance Upgrades
For improved handling, consider adjustable struts. Koni Sport (yellow) inserts (part number 8040-1120) are a popular upgrade for the CRX. They allow you to adjust rebound damping, stiffening the ride for autocross or canyon driving. Keep in mind that performance struts may lower ride height slightly when paired with aftermarket springs.
Coil Springs
Factory springs on the 1985 CRX Si are progressive rate, providing a comfortable ride. Sagging or broken springs can be replaced with OEM-style (Moog or Duralast) or aftermarket performance springs.
Stock Replacement Springs
Moog coil springs (part number 81158) are a direct fit and match stock ride height and rate. They are affordable and restore original ride quality.
Lowering Springs
For a sporty stance and reduced body roll, consider lowering springs. Eibach Pro-Kit (part number 3510.140) lowers the car about 1.5 inches front and rear. It maintains good ride comfort while improving cornering. H&R Sport Springs are another option. When lowering, you may need shorter struts to prevent bottoming out; Koni Sport or KYB AGX are compatible.
Control Arms and Ball Joints
The lower control arms on the 1985 CRX Si are prone to bushing wear and ball joint failure. Worn ball joints cause clunking noises and loose steering. Replacing the entire control arm with pre-installed ball joints saves labor.
Replacement Control Arms
ACDelco (part number 46A0617) and Moog (part number RK8055) offer complete lower control arms with new ball joints. These are direct fit and made from high-strength steel. For the upper control arms (if equipped with double-wishbone rear; front is strut), the CRX does not have upper control arms.
Ball Joints
If you prefer to press in new ball joints, Moog (part number K9780) is a quality aftermarket option. Ensure proper alignment after replacement.
Bushings
Front suspension bushings absorb road vibration and maintain geometry. The 1985 CRX Si uses rubber bushings in the lower control arm and sway bar. Over time, these crack and deteriorate.
Rubber Bushings
For a stock restoration, OEM rubber bushings are available from Honda or aftermarket suppliers like Moog (part number K10054 for control arm bushings). They offer good ride comfort but will wear out again.
Polyurethane Bushings
Energy Suspension (part number 16.3101) makes a polyurethane bushing kit for the CRX front control arms and sway bar. Poly bushings reduce flex for sharper handling but increase road noise and vibration. They are ideal for track-focused builds.
Sway Bar
The front sway bar (stabilizer bar) on the 1985 CRX Si is 20mm in diameter. Worn bushings or end links cause clunks and reduce effectiveness.
End Links
Replace the sway bar end links with Moog (part number K80071) or Energy Suspension polyurethane end links (part number 9.8127). The poly ones last longer and tighten up the bar.
Sway Bar Bushings
Replace the bar bushings with Energy Suspension (part number 16.5101) for poly, or OEM rubber from Honda (part number 51306-SR1-000).
Steering Tie Rods
Tie rods connect the steering rack to the knuckle. Worn tie rods cause wandering and uneven tire wear. Replace as a set.
Inner tie rods: Moog (part number EV800115) or OEM Honda (part number 53020-SR3-000). Outer tie rods: Moog (part number EV800116) or OEM (part number 53030-SR3-000). Always get an alignment after replacing tie rods.
Compatibility with Other Models
Many front suspension parts are shared with other 1984-1987 Honda Civic and CRX models. The 1985 CRX Si shares the same strut design as the CRX HF and DX, but springs and damping rates differ. The Si has a stiffer spring rate. When buying aftermarket, confirm fitment for '85 Si.
Final Recommendation
For a daily driver or restoration, replace worn components with stock-quality parts: KYB struts, Moog control arms, and OEM tie rods. For a weekend toy or autocross car, invest in Koni Sport struts, Eibach lowering springs, and polyurethane bushings. Always replace front suspension parts in pairs (both sides) and get a professional alignment after work is complete.
Maintaining your 1985 Honda CRX Si’s front suspension not only restores its legendary handling but also ensures safety. Choose parts that match your driving style and budget, and enjoy the road ahead.