Landcruiser 200 suspension - Upgrade?
Submitted: Tuesday, Mar 08, 2011 at 00:33
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Luke R
Hi All
I have been lucky enough to have a LC200 supplied to me for work. As I live in a remote area, the cruiser has a few extras which no doubt add to the weight - Steel Bull bar, full size roof rack, dual wheel carrier. A lot of our driving is done on dirt roads, with all that comes with that - corrugations, potholes, washouts depending on the season. The vehicle is sometimes used to tow a trailer or is at least packed up with lots of gear in the back. . Considering the weight in accessories and the fact it is used mainly on dirt, I do have a question regarding the
suspension.
Is a
suspension upgrade totally necessary? or is it just a luxury? I do have the feeling the rear end is sagging a bit, especially when towing.
I would love to know some opinions or experiences on this. Any suggestions of brands or set ups? I am not at all interested in creating a monster truck but would like to see the vehicle live a long life.
Cheers
Luke
Reply By: Wayne's 60 - Tuesday, Mar 08, 2011 at 01:27
Tuesday, Mar 08, 2011 at 01:27
Hi Luke,
Taking into account the initial question ................ if you have to ask .....
our assessment is that the answer is YES.
Upgrade the
suspension to cover the work that you and your vehicle are doing now.
Standard
suspension on a vehicle .................. is made to a price.
FWIW ............ Kings Springs is my/we/our and our mechanics' choice (insert usual disclaimer)
on all of our vehicles ........... 60 series, 80 series and Suzuki Sierra ....................
expensive ................... NO ..................... not when it does the job!!
Cheers,
Wayne & Sally.
AnswerID:
447628
Reply By: Member - Toyocrusa (NSW) - Tuesday, Mar 08, 2011 at 06:07
Tuesday, Mar 08, 2011 at 06:07
Hi Luke. My brother tows a 3.5 tonne van with his. He has a draw system in the back complete with 50l fridge. Van towball weight is around 350kg. We fitted Polyair air bag helpers in the rear springs which have been perfect in supporting all the extra weight in/on the back. He has a WDH with the van on. The maximum pressure he has required was 20lb in them and down to 10lb without the van. It still allows a reasonably standard ride whilst holding the weight as
well. Regards,Bob
AnswerID:
447632
Reply By: Member - Captain (WA) - Tuesday, Mar 08, 2011 at 10:42
Tuesday, Mar 08, 2011 at 10:42
Hi Luke,
I have the ARB
suspension with 2" lift in my 200. A very worthwhile addition and one I would recommend given what accessories your vehicle has and the travel you do.
Cheers
Captain
AnswerID:
447643
Reply By: Member - Noel M (NSW) - Tuesday, Mar 08, 2011 at 10:54
Tuesday, Mar 08, 2011 at 10:54
Hi Luke
We run a LC200 with an OME 600kg
suspension. The vehicle has steel roobar and side rails, draw system, tank, tyre carrier plus carries our family of five. Used the LC to tow a camper trailer last July across the Simpson and beyond, the ride and handling is brilliant. Cheapest mod you will make.
AnswerID:
447645
Reply By: olcoolone - Tuesday, Mar 08, 2011 at 11:39
Tuesday, Mar 08, 2011 at 11:39
"Is a
suspension upgrade totally necessary? or is it just a luxury?"
How can it be a luxury if it gives you a safety and handling benefit?
And in the next paragraph you answered you own question why you should have it upgraded.......
"A lot of our driving is done on dirt roads, with all that comes with that - corrugations, potholes, washouts depending on the season."
AnswerID:
447650
Reply By: Member - John Baas (WA) - Tuesday, Mar 08, 2011 at 12:27
Tuesday, Mar 08, 2011 at 12:27
Hi Luke.
I've created your 'monster truck' for long distance remote area touring so my exp. is not really relevant to you.
But you'll find a lot of info about the 200 on the LCOOL site; search on GVM.
Cheers.
AnswerID:
447658