I am looking to replace the front struts on my '99 accord EX sedan with 188k on the clock. I have seen some $65 complete drop in strut assemblies. Anyone done this job, does it hake the car ride and handle alot better? Any inexspensive brands you can recomend?

 

If the shock is blown and the spring is sagging, replacing both would bring the ride height and quality back.
None that I can think of, I would not cheap out on dampers as they greatly contribute to ride quality. Cheap dampers may not be correctly valved for the spring/car and may cause for a harsh or marshmellow ride.
If the original dampers are still installed, they may be KYBs, if you look at them you will see a large 'KYB' stamped on the tube. If so look up KYB dampers/complete assemblies. They can be found for good prices through some of the larger online retailers.