95 series shock absorbers

[Fernsy Lurker Find all posts View Profile Close Fernsy]

I have a 2001 TX Diesel auto and have been told the shocks are at about 30% remaining.
I dont do much off road but tow a 2 tonne caravan. At what point do I need to replace shocks and are genuine Toyota shocks the wsy to go? Have been quoted $970.00 for 4 shocks fitted by Toyota Dealer yet been quoted $1500 for Monro shocks by another mechanic. Do I go with genuine Toyota?

[Ron.H. Junior Member Find all posts View Profile Close Ron.H.]

If you are replacing shocks you may want to think about putting heavier springs in while it is pulled apart, to take the load of the caravan, depends if the rear end of the Prado is sagging down when caravan is connected.
Springs are the cheap bit but play an important part in keeping the car level where as the shocks stop the bounce continuing to bounce.
If you are not doing much off road then Toyota shocks may be the way to go so check around for pricing.

[t303 Senior Member Find all posts View Profile Close t303]

I have a 2001 TX Diesel auto and have been told the shocks are at about 30% remaining.
I dont do much off road but tow a 2 tonne caravan. At what point do I need to replace shocks and are genuine Toyota shocks the wsy to go? Have been quoted $970.00 for 4 shocks fitted by Toyota Dealer yet been quoted $1500 for Monro shocks by another mechanic. Do I go with genuine Toyota?

I have exactly the same setup, usage and van weight.
KYB Skorched 4's with Kings HD raised rear with poly bags, Kings EHD raised front (with steel bar, winch, dual batt. Use HD otherwise). The KYB/Kings package was originally specced and tested by the engineer at KYB Aus using his own 95series Prado. Settles nicely to just over stock height, handles just right and dead level loaded/hitched with about 20psi in rear bags.
cheers
Steve