Modified 4WD insurance

You are going from 31's to 35's which is a 4" increase in OD for the tyres which will need an engineers certificate in NSW (I understand Qld is more stringent). I have gone to 33's in my Discovery and I love the extra clearance, but do notice a reduction in braking and stability that eminates from the sidewalls flexing as much as they do. The gearing is altered, though this has not woried me much as the TD5 seems happier on the highway, though performance off the line is bluntened. Low range is pretty good anyhow in the Disco.

I also have a 4" lift which is fine. I actually think most of the performance degradation comes from the tyres rather than the lift. Something the lift has done is introduced an intermittant driveline vibration from a rear universal joint, so be aware of this. I don't know how the rear of the Patrol is set up in this respect. The Rancho 9000's are pretty good, though I dont think perfect (what is though?). I don't fit into many carparks these days, so be aware of this, and I'm not sure anymore if the thing will slide in an emergency or just plain fall over, though I do love the view up there. If you do the lift, which will total 6" also, make sure you get some rock slider steps to help you get in and out.

TCIS will insure almost anything as long as its legal or engineer certified. They worked out to be $500pa cheaper for me than NRMA ins.

Regards
Slunnie

No matter what any insurance company says, they all have a clause that says that a vehicle must be roadworthy or you won't get a cent. Of course they'll still take your money, but your not covered if your vehicle isn't legal.

That means that you would have to have a tyre placard or modification plate saying that Queensland Transport allows that tyre size.

You will need engineers for 33 and 35's in Vic as well. The only ones Ive heard of passsing are BFG MTs in 35 and Coopers 35's, as the engineer has it in writing that they are safe and recommended by the importer to go on 8inch rims.. 10inch are illegal in Victoria.

Anyway....

In Qld they are VERY harsh on what you can and cant do. Im thinking 35's are a no in Qld from what Ive read on a few of the serious hack 4b lists... I could be wrong, but your best bet is to get it in writing, contact a 4wd shop that does mods, and ask for the contact details to their Engineer.. Ask him.

Failing that contact Qld Tpt and ask for contact details of approved engineers, and get it from them, as they are the ones that will have to pass it before you can register it again...

I had to get engineers for 33's goign from 31's in Vic..


I will also be putting in at least a 3-4 inch lift to give these tyres plenty of room. Probably the TJM series 2000 coils and the Rancho 9000 shocks for good wheel travel and adjustability.

Thats a waste. your going top of range shocks, and cheap springs. Go King or Dobinson springs... You wont regret it. Also think about the rancho 9's... (they dont make 9000 anymore anwyay).. Will you use the adjustment?? I have 9's and dont! You can save money there if you wish!

YMMV.
My Place

Whatever you do DONT USE Australian 4WD Insurance. These used to be BRA insurance and were marketed throughh the ARB business. I had 18 months of hell in the form of shocking service, not returning phone calls, patronising letters, etc etc... all after I found out that they had me uninsured for almost 8 months. I was a paid up member (or so I thought) and these people treated me like the dirt on a pub floor. I had 5 vehicles insured with them for over 8 years and I have found that they are the bottom of the toilet as far as 4WD insurance goes. ARB reccommended them to me and I wished that they never had. After a bit of fishing around the best value cover that covered all of my accessories and modifications is AAMI. Give them a try for a quote. Just Stay Away from AUSTRALIAN 4WD INSURANCE, well away. YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED. ANDY

My 99 Hilux SR5 has over $13,000 worth of Mods and extras and they didn't even question any of them. I have susp, tyres, bars you name it. I believe that honesty is the best way with Insurance companies. That way you don't suprise them when it comes to vehicle inspections and they don't surprise you when it comes to claiming. Cheers.