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Hi all. I have been reading as much as possible regarding upgrading the suspension on our (mostly stock) 2015 VX KDSS Prado 3.0 diesel. I note that quite a few options exist for pre-engineered setups allowing relatively easy signoff by an engineer for an official GVM alteration, however.....
- I note that options seem to be rather limited for KDSS compatible systems
- I note that many places reviewed here and elsewhere seem to be everywhere but Melbourne!
- Talking to Zordo's (thanks to the people who recommended them), the best system for our needs is likely a Dobinsons kit, with rear airbags (for when towing our camper trailer). This would achieve a (desirable) 50mm lift, and would help level towing (where we get quite a bit of rear sag when fully loaded, and the trailer sits high/Prado low).
- I am aware that the dreaded "KDSS Lean" will present itself if installers aren't skilled at setting it all up
- The Dobinson's will only offer a likely 10% GVM upgrade. IS this going to be worth the engineering certification costs? Indeed, will it be enough? To help answer that:
- currently we don't have many extras added. I would (at some stage) like to add an AFN or ARB bullbar and rails/steps, driving lights, a winch, probably some underbody protection, an oil cooler, a UHF radio, and a Rhino roof platform. With the suspension, we should be able to slightly increase tyre profile when they need changing (which should lift it a little further). Given we often travel as a family of 5 (almost all adult size) and a boot full of luggage, I am wary this all adds up quick!
- Like many, the Prado spends most of it's time as a city commuter (not ideal, I know), so we want to make sure that the suspension doesn't end up stiff and rough when the car is not loaded at all. In part, that was reasoning for the airbags by Zordo's - don't have to go too-stiff springs, but can adjust ride and height when towing and loaded.
I'm keen to hear from everyone regarding best options. I am assuming that perhaps it'd be best to do the lot at once, at the same place, along with engineering - all in one hit. That way they'll know weights and make sure the suspension chosen is most appropriate. Having said that, I know this can quickly get above $15k! Ouch.
Look forward to responses and advice.
MAt
- I note that options seem to be rather limited for KDSS compatible systems
- I note that many places reviewed here and elsewhere seem to be everywhere but Melbourne!
- Talking to Zordo's (thanks to the people who recommended them), the best system for our needs is likely a Dobinsons kit, with rear airbags (for when towing our camper trailer). This would achieve a (desirable) 50mm lift, and would help level towing (where we get quite a bit of rear sag when fully loaded, and the trailer sits high/Prado low).
- I am aware that the dreaded "KDSS Lean" will present itself if installers aren't skilled at setting it all up
- The Dobinson's will only offer a likely 10% GVM upgrade. IS this going to be worth the engineering certification costs? Indeed, will it be enough? To help answer that:
- currently we don't have many extras added. I would (at some stage) like to add an AFN or ARB bullbar and rails/steps, driving lights, a winch, probably some underbody protection, an oil cooler, a UHF radio, and a Rhino roof platform. With the suspension, we should be able to slightly increase tyre profile when they need changing (which should lift it a little further). Given we often travel as a family of 5 (almost all adult size) and a boot full of luggage, I am wary this all adds up quick!
- Like many, the Prado spends most of it's time as a city commuter (not ideal, I know), so we want to make sure that the suspension doesn't end up stiff and rough when the car is not loaded at all. In part, that was reasoning for the airbags by Zordo's - don't have to go too-stiff springs, but can adjust ride and height when towing and loaded.
I'm keen to hear from everyone regarding best options. I am assuming that perhaps it'd be best to do the lot at once, at the same place, along with engineering - all in one hit. That way they'll know weights and make sure the suspension chosen is most appropriate. Having said that, I know this can quickly get above $15k! Ouch.
Look forward to responses and advice.
MAt