Junkyard struts/shocks?

[Jackrabbit]

Suspension is blown on my minivan. I figured I'd try the boneyard... any easy way to tell if a junkyard unit is worth a damn?

Also, is there a big difference between V6 and 4 banger struts? I imagine the V6 units are stiffer, but I figured I'd ask.

Oh and one last thing: What all years can I use in my van?

BIG THANKS!

-Wade

[SilverShelbyZ]

Well first of all you're looking for any signs that they are leaking. Shocks you can test by simply compressing them by hand and making sure they rebound (they don't do it all that fast). Struts are a little more difficult to test because the valving is slower and they have springs on them. Your best bet with the struts is probably to find the lowest mileage car you can, or look for ones that are clearly replacements.