50mm lift and they have used a 50mm spacer on a 6 1/2 inch airbag

Submitted: Saturday, Nov 28, 2009 at 07:55

ThreadID: 74062 Views:3401 Replies:2 FollowUps:1

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Salty9

I have given my 2004 Pathfinder R50 a 50mm suspension lift all round and instead of using 7 1/2 inch airbags with 25mm spacers they have used 6 1/2 inch bags with 50mm spacers.
I did a rough calculation and find there is around 15% less air in a 6 1/2 inch bag, depending of course what pressure is in it.
In principle I have insisted they be swapped over, however they were fitted yesterday and I am heading off on a 2 week 4wd trip early Monday morning and I have no time to get them changed.
The fitter said they would enquire from the supplier if the bags could be swapped when I get back. No response yet.
My main query will there be any major difference in the performance of my suspension by having the 7 1/2 inch bags.
I understand some of the Patrols use a 50mm spacer.

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Reply By: Horacehighroller - Saturday, Nov 28, 2009 at 11:24

Saturday, Nov 28, 2009 at 11:24

In principle a smaller airbag will allow less overall suspension travell.
(Fully compressed length to fully extended length)

That being said it is possible that the 6.5" bag will still allow the maximum that the rest of the suspension is capable of.

Also, a 6.5" bag will be slightly more firm then a 7.5"

eg Compress a 6" bag by 3" you double the pressure (double spring rate).
Compress a 12" bag by 3" you only increase spring rate by 25%.

If they indicate that they will change them when you get back from your trip I suggest they put it in writing.
(People's memories seem to fail rapidly over time)

Can't wait to hear feedback re: comfort/handling with tha airbags.

Peter
Melb
HZJ 105 n/a auto

AnswerID: 393009

Follow Up By: Salty9 - Sunday, Nov 29, 2009 at 08:52

Sunday, Nov 29, 2009 at 08:52

Hello Peter, and thanks for your response.

On my last trip to Birdsville via the Bore Track and the Walkers Crossing Track my tail was down 50mm on the standard suspension so I am expecting a great improvement on this trip.

I will give you some feedback when I return Mid December.

Salty9

FollowupID: 661106