Time for new struts/shocks?

[cooltouch]

I have a 97 with very low miles -- about 36k. And I know that OEM shocks or struts usually don't last much longer than that. Plus, these components are just plain old now.

We have to drive on a street that is almost like riding a roller coaster in places and if I'm driving a bit too fast, the suspension bottoms out as I hit some of the bigger whoop-de-dos. In fact, the suspension tends to bottom out whenever I hit a pretty good bump. So, first, I'm wondering if this is normal? Is the Aurora sorely lacking in suspension travel, or should I suspect that things are worn out, despite the low miles?

I've read through a couple of threads on the topic of struts and coil spring replacements and I've learned that a lot of the suspension components for the '97 are unique to this particular year model. Which makes me wonder if it's gonna be hard to find replacement parts for it. I'd also just like to know what you guys recommend when it's time to replace the struts and stuff -- like should I replace the springs also? Will this help with my car's tendency to bottom out when I hit an even moderately sized bump?

Anything you'd like to comment on about this topic, feel free to. Wax eloquent as all get out, I don't care. I'm here to learn.

[sall]

KYB strut, OEM coil spring and monroe strut mount kit. Replace the insulator and spring seats if needed or just do it(why not?). Transfer strut bellow and you are all set. The KYB are actual designed to be used with old springs but you'll still like them with new springs if you don't care much for floaty OEM ride.

[cooltouch]

I dunno if I would describe my Aurora's ride as "floaty." It's firmer than the typical cabin-cruiser like handling characteristics of many American cars. But I guess I wouldn't mind if it were a bit more firm. Mostly I just want to set it up so it doesn't bottom out so easily.

I guess I need to crawl under the car so I can see what an "insulator" and "spring seats" and a "transfer strut bellow" (or is that just a "strut bellow" that's being transferred?) look like. I've changed out the coil springs in my Volvos before so I think I know what the spring seats are.

[sall]

I just meant to re-use the stut bellow.

The lower insulator and spring seat are just the rubber portions between the spring so it's not metal on metal.