Suspension Upgrade - Kimberley/Tanami

I'm not sure what answer you are looking for, but IMHO the answer is..no.
I've done the Tanani & GRR twice in different vehicles with standard suspension with
no issues. Good shocks are a blessing & good tyres a neccessity. Save the bucks
for fuel..cheers....oldbaz.

Gooday, Did the Tanami via the Simpson to the GRR up to Mitchell Falls, with a 2003 Landcruiser with a trayback camper and the only suspension assist we had were airbags to the rear, otherwise everything else stock standard. We did notice on that trip that a number of people were having trouble with shock absorbers, but I suspect that it was the way they may have driven that caused the problems. Take your time let things cool down and you should have no problems. Save your money for fuel etc....

Regards

Mike

LLoyd it's not clear to me if you are referring to an upgrade to the Pajero or the trailer, but my experience is that if your downweight is over about 100kg then you will need stiffer springs, and a rear wheel alignment ont he Pajero as a minimum. Mine scrubbed the inside of the tyres something shocking and a friend had exactly the same issue. In my case the towball wieght was only about 120kg. 15,000kms out of a set of tyres was about normal.

Also watch the rear door on the tow hitch it you don't own the trailer already.

My advice is always keep the load down, keep the speed down and until you notice sagging or deterioration, don't go changing the suspension for a single trip, better to make sure you have really good tyres in top condition and you know how to manage the pressures.

Looks like I am the first to go upstream here ( and I can't believe I am) but i would definitely invest in a suspension upgrade. It is an investment not only for this trip but many more. And given this is possibly one of the big ones you are are going to do, I would do it now.

Advice above are all very valid. Yes watch your speed, keep your weight down and yes many people have done it without upgrade.

But fact is you will probably be very heavy. Beer for three or four weeks (no alcohol supplies on GRR) and whatever the others may drink, major food supplies (yes supplies are available but we did not count on it, good thing as it was patchy).
And yes many have done it without suspension upgrade without problems but many more have done it with the upgrade with less problems.

If budget is limited then at least get good LT tyres and follow the advice on speed, weight etc. it is a beautiful part of the world, enjoy it!
CJ

Hi Lloyd
I have to agree with CJ.
I can't speak about Pajero never had one.
But I have owned 5 4x4's Nissan & Toyota and have put good quality after market suspension on each vehicle. Manufacturers try to split the ride between comphy city driving and outback travel. In all my 4x4's they have been a far better vehicle with the
after market suspension.
It depends if this trip is a one off or you intend to do more outback travel.
But in my experience after market suspension has improved my vehicles for towing, outback travel & general overall ride.
Talk to a good quality suspension supplier about your needs and get a system that suits your vehicle and intended future driving trips.
As a matter of interest I have always used ARB - Old Man Emu Suspension - it has worked for me - " BUT " before anyone wants to shoot me down ??
There are other reputable suppliers out there.
Just my experience of 25yrs Outback travel.
Good luck with your decision and enjoy your trip.

Barry - Southern Cross Dreaming.