Suspension Upgrade Feedback

Submitted: Sunday, Dec 16, 2007 at 14:06

ThreadID: 52595 Views:3585 Replies:4 FollowUps:3

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Suspension

There is an unfortunate but realistic fact about purchasing a new 4WD - it won't come fitted with a suspension system designed to carry the kind of load you'll pack for a serious outback trip.

G&K

Howdy! I'm new to the site in a contibutory mode but have accessed the web page and articles for a while. It's all great stuff but it's also slightly(?) confusing. We're relative newcomers to 4WDing and so far have only dabbled with some training - thought that would be a good idea from the safety perspective - and a day trip to Stockton Beach. So far so good.

We're off on a trip to the Vic high country and have been advised that the suspension as fitted may not be up to the task - factory fitted 2006 Prado. We'll be heading west later in the year to the Simpson so two very good reasons to get this right first time.

It seems there in unlimited variation and if I read twelve different articles I can fit twelve different configurations from different manufacturers and each will be "ideal". HELP!!

There's lift kits too! I realise that a suspension upgrade won't actually provide any greater diff clearance so what can I do about that. What advantage does a lift provide in regard to body clearance over a suspension upgrade?

G&K

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Reply By: disco driver - Sunday, Dec 16, 2007 at 14:30

Sunday, Dec 16, 2007 at 14:30

Hi G&K,
As you say, there are sooooo many threads on here regarding suspension lifts/upgrades and not quite as many on body lifts that it gets confusing to say the least.

While I'm not a great fan of either, I believe in the KISS principle(Keep it standard son), but if I was asked I would put a suspension upgrade well before a body lift on my priority list.

Individually these modifications will raise the centre of gravity a bit and in combination can make a considerable difference.

As far as increasing the under axle clearance the only option there is to fit bigger tyres and/or rims. This increases the overall gearing with all the advantages/disadvantages that can bring.

As with all modifications, there are legal limits that cannot be exceeded without an engineers certificate. (Check with the Licensing authority in your state before going too far). Failure to do so may result in no insurance cover if the worst happens.

Hope this helps.

Disco.

AnswerID: 276921

Follow Up By: Dunco (NSW) - Sunday, Dec 16, 2007 at 23:58

Sunday, Dec 16, 2007 at 23:58

KISS principle

Keep it simple stupid :)

FollowupID: 540884

Follow Up By: disco driver - Monday, Dec 17, 2007 at 00:29

Monday, Dec 17, 2007 at 00:29

Dunco.

I might be oldish, but i'm not too old to know what KISS means

Everyone elses version........KISS:- Keep it simple, stupid
My version.........................KISS:- Keep it standard, son

SAME BLOODY THING when working with vehicles in remote areas.

Nuff said.

Disco.

FollowupID: 540885

Reply By: Member -Dodger - Sunday, Dec 16, 2007 at 15:50

Sunday, Dec 16, 2007 at 15:50

I suggest that you go with a suspension upgrade with a 50mm or 2" lift available from Opposite lock, ARB, TJM outlets. These have been designed by the experts to give your vehicle the extra lift to ensure that your vehicle at least can handle the loads we tend to put in / on them when touring. This is the max lift without an engineers cert. Plus is the norm for the tourer.
EG. I have a 50mm lift or suspension upgrade on my Patrol thus when it is fully loaded with the van on the back (see pic below) it has at least the ground clearance of a standard Patrol.
These systems also give you a better standard of shock absorber and in my case variable rated rear coils for towing.
Any of the above outlets can advise you, but will of course try to sell their brand so shop around and be guided by your head not your wallet. This will insure you get what is suitable for your requirements.

I used to have a handle on life, but it broke.

Cheers Dodg.

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AnswerID: 276928

Reply By: leachy_9 - Sunday, Dec 16, 2007 at 17:39

Sunday, Dec 16, 2007 at 17:39

One of the best suspension packages available for the Prado in Lovells or King Springs (+50mm) and Bilstien Shocks. I have the the lovells/bilstien combo at their great.
The Gurus of Prado suspension are ATS in Geelong. They have developed a package using Kings Springs and Bilstiens have have been re-valved. I'm don't now where you located but ATS will usually work with local 4wd / suspension places to supply thier packages.

Leachy.

AnswerID: 276947