Can I replace springs only (not shocks/struts)?

[hookedon4wding Advanced Member Find all posts View Profile Close hookedon4wding]

Hi guys, it it possible to replace the springs for a small lift and leave the standards shocks/struts in or do you need longer shocks too?

Looking to get a slight lift without having to spend a fortune. Not planning on doing any long distances over severe corrugations anytime soon so not sure whether I need to upgrade the shocks yet.

If it is possible, any recommendations on springs? Don't really want to ruin the plush ride with HD springs.

Cheers, Sam.

[Madkore Avid PP Poster! Find all posts View Profile Close Madkore]

Re: Can I replace springs only (not shocks/struts)?

I originally put standard King springs in my 120 series Prado and it gave it about a 20/30mm lift and it did make the ride more firm. I did change out the shocks/struts at the same time however I am of the belief you could put these springs in, or something similar, while keeping the standard shocks as they should have enough droop still left in them.

For you I am not sure how your ride would be effected as the spring and shock would no longer be matched, but I don't believe it would be overly firm.

As always, I am only speaking from my experience and I am no mechanic, not even a mechanic's...... Someone on here may be able to recommend a suspension specialist you can speak to.

[ozwapet2 Advanced Member Find all posts View Profile Close ozwapet2]

Re: Can I replace springs only (not shocks/struts)?

Someone on here may be able to recommend a suspension specialist you can speak to.

I see you are in Melbourne ...speak to Darren at Autocraft ...posts here a lot and bit of a guru on Prado suspension.

[email protected] 03 52211371

If lift is all you're looking for you might be able to use some spacers, but I heard that you should always look at the whole suspension system, not just go for lift.

[Hutch Addicted PP Member Find all posts View Profile Close Hutch]

Re: Can I replace springs only (not shocks/struts)?

Been their done that with other cars, you can pull the top out of the shock/ break it as it might not be longer enough with the new spring height. From experience if you r going to do something do it all together as you get a much better outcome.
If you want a plush ride as stated previously talk to Darren and go the billys package, the guys that have it love it.

[lissted Member Find all posts View Profile Close lissted]

Re: Can I replace springs only (not shocks/struts)?

Hi
You can just replace the spring and it will work if you are after a small lift BUT, a spring and shock is to be suited to each other to work well. A longer sping (even smaller lifts) will possibly make the shock over extend easier therefore will damage itself. Even a 10mm lift, the coils are the same length, just a bit stiffer spring rate and inturn the shock should be changed to match, usually a bit stiffer shock as well. In the end if you aren't going 4x4 and loading it up for trips, maybe a set of air bags would suit, then when $$$ come round then do it right. Then just to choose which coils and shocks to use!!!
Good luck
Peter

[hookedon4wding Advanced Member Find all posts View Profile Close hookedon4wding]

Can I replace springs only (not shocks/struts)?

Thanks for the replies guys. I guess I was just being a bit tight.

We do quite a bit of 4wding in the High Country and a bit of lift would be very helpful for reducing underbody damage over wash aways and ruts. I was just hoping for a quick, cheap fix but you're all right. I will wait until the budget allows a full setup. We had the OME package in the Pajero and it was great.

Cheers, Sam.

[stowe Lurker Find all posts View Profile Close stowe]

Re: Can I replace springs only (not shocks/struts)?

I have had installed Lovells Springs - heavy duty same height on 2 4wd's and worked a treat. A mate of mine has done the same and swears by them as well. Kept the same height, everything else the same but makes a real difference. He pulls an 18' van and no issues at all.

[Crisp Image Member Find all posts View Profile Close Crisp Image]

I fitted Lovells std height std springs in the rear and gained 30mm. I kept the standard shocks. They have a higher spring rate by 25% over Toyota springs. I kept the shocks (which are KYB)
Now when the camper is on the tug sits level and does not bounce around. for $260 fitted I think they are great.
Regards
Crisp Image