Lovells Springs + Koni Shocks GU Patrol

Hi Andrew,

I have Koni shocks + King springs on my GU, giving ~ 40mm lift.

So I can't comment on the springs other than I've heard Lovells are very good. I also thought WA Suspensions gave good advice when I spoke to them. I went with King springs because I was able to get my suspension at trade via Wilkinson Suspension in Bayswater, which I had a friend fit for me. There are so many spring combinations that it's easy to get confused, however I found that both WA Suspensions and Wilkinsons both asked some good questions to gain an understanding of vehicle needs, so I think you'd be fine with their recommendation. I went for nominal 2" fixed rate on front and 2" progressive rate on the rear. As I mentioned above, this only gave me ~ 40mm but that is what I was told in advance and suits me.

The Koni shocks have been an excellent addition, particularly on the corrugation. The GU shocks are long travel and I am amazed by their stroke, enough for the springs to just come out of tension but not loose. They are adjustable, however I installed at factory setting (softest setting) and find they are good for me. I read a post a while back stating to start soft and work up as they age. Nothing stopping making them firmer straight away - all a matter of preference.

I am happy with my set-up, certainly better than std. I haven't experience with anything else, though I'm sure there are lots of opinions out there.

Regards,
Hugh

Ask Roachie, he has Lovells and i am sure he got a bigger lift than 25-30mm. He used to run Koni's too but now has TJM XGS's.

Sorry Andrew

I have Lovells on a 95 series Prado & have nothing but praise for them.

Whatever you do, buy whatever you buy from an expert as they will put together the BEST package of springs & shocks for your APPLICATION.

Good luck

Yep I have Lovell’s form WA suspensions as well, Happy with the sprig’s and happy with the service they provided.

Just remember to ask them at what hight the spring's will settle at, as you may only get 20mm in the end.

Hows it going Andrew,

Have lovells and ranchos 9000x at the moment , ranchos have given up the ghost after a lap of OZ, going for Konis next , have heard they are a good match.

Glenn

Mate,

I have this exact set up on my 2003 Patrol. got it installed in Melb in Jan this year - $1350 installed. It gave me 50mm lift overall, but most importantly it handles better when I have a load on, and also handles well unloaded.

I would recommed this set up to you strongly. Lovells and Koni both have good names, and I have had no probs - so far 15000 km down the track.

and...I forgot to ask.

DId you do any other mods like Caster kits or anything?

I drive it most of the time unloaded, so like you, this was my main concern. The springs are extra heavy duty, and I 99% sure the Koni's are on medium.

The handling is a little stiffer than the standard. My main concern was whether it would be too stiff unloaded - and the only limitation I has was that my wife told me she would ride in it if it were too uncomfortable. She was more than happy and I am extremely happy. It removes most of the body roll when loaded and unloaded.

MY advice - go for it. If you are not satisfied, you have the option of adjusting the shockers, even though it is a bugger of a job.