Torsion bars

if you are after more lift then simply wind the bar up to the required level. If you are after a better ride then grab a 4WD magazine. There are always about 4 or 5 options for aftermarket kits.

I have a 3 year old duel cab SR5 that has been loaded up with steel bar, side rails, side steps, winch, duel batteries, long range tank and a whole lot more. In fact almost 600 kgs heavier than standard. I have upgraded the 4 shockers and rear springs with OME gear including nitro charges from ARB and have just lifted the standard torsion bars to give more lift. Ride quality did not change, ground clearence got better and I still have almost 2 inches to go. The bars sagged after about 1 year and I just wound them up a bit more. They have settled in about 1 inche higher than standard.

This did not alter the front diff clearance though. If you want more lift for the undercarriage you will have to add over diameter tyres as well as a torsion bar lift. To finish the job all you have to do is get the wheel alignment done so as it drives straight and does not scrub the tyres.

Dont spend money just for the sake of it. If you have a real reason to load the vehicle up more than me then get new bars but from my experience the standard ones have a whole lot of adjustment in them and they are more than adequit. I take a family of 4 with a canopy loaded and a 17 foot boat without any trouble. Standards are pretty good

Remember if you go aftermarket for several inches more lift then the angle changes in the front end will shorten the life of the CV joints. It would pay to upgrade these too as they are a little weak in the Hilux.

thanks

Hi

Got a set of Old Man Emu torsion bars on my 2002 hilux,They are thicker and stronger makes for a better ride and handling.

Cheers