Hi Guys,
I'm new to the 4x4 scene and have recently purchased a Prado 90 series here in India.
God I love this vehicle and in a country dominated by hatchbacks, this one surely lets its presence known and is a very exclusive car to own. Being a 100% import, there were few takers back then due to poor market economy, fuel efficiency (even by diesel standards)
, and high spare parts cost. I got one for myself as soon as I could afford one.
I have some issues with the vehicle (140,000 kms old 2.8L/3.0L Turbo-Diesel), mostly the dynamics for which I think this is the best place since there are many users here and everything is tried and tested. So guys will really appreciate all your help.
1. This vehicle has got a lot of sideways sway which is very noticeable in the middle row.
2. The suspension doesnt have the kind of 'thud' that should be experienced in an SUV, particularly a great vehicle like prado. The vehicle doesnt exactly glide over potholes and one can hear a rather hollowish kind of sound.
The previous owner did mention that the OEM suspensions are still in use and may need replacement mostly as per personal wish.
We Indians try and save money wherever possible.
I took it to my mechanic and he noticed that the front linkages had given way and were replaced. Since then the front is improved but the glide over bad/broken roads is missing, both from the front and rear end. I believe the rear issue is causing a more than normal body roll which causes fatigue while driving.
I need help regarding the following:
1. What could be the issue? I am assuming its the suspension, but want it to be a clean slate for now so that I can get all opinions.
2. Should I replace just the shock absorbers keeping the OEM springs, or replace both? I'm not really keen for lift since my parents use this vehicle too and anything higher will be an inconvenience for them.
3. Should the rear linkages be replaced?
4. Anything else to be checked/replaced for a great ride?
I read a couple of forums of Aussie users and came across Kings, TJM, TJM Gold, KYB Excel G (an Aus user wasnt happy with this one, and this is easily available in India), Old Man, Koni and Bilstein.
Which one of these is the simplest, cheapest and most reliable one to get for my Prado?
I want something that takes away the roll, helps me sail over bad roads and should last long? Dont know, but is it too much to ask for?
OEM suspension overhaul will cost $20,000 equivalent over here, which I think is too high.
Looking forward to your replies.
Moby.
I'm new to the 4x4 scene and have recently purchased a Prado 90 series here in India.
God I love this vehicle and in a country dominated by hatchbacks, this one surely lets its presence known and is a very exclusive car to own. Being a 100% import, there were few takers back then due to poor market economy, fuel efficiency (even by diesel standards)
I have some issues with the vehicle (140,000 kms old 2.8L/3.0L Turbo-Diesel), mostly the dynamics for which I think this is the best place since there are many users here and everything is tried and tested. So guys will really appreciate all your help.
1. This vehicle has got a lot of sideways sway which is very noticeable in the middle row.
2. The suspension doesnt have the kind of 'thud' that should be experienced in an SUV, particularly a great vehicle like prado. The vehicle doesnt exactly glide over potholes and one can hear a rather hollowish kind of sound.
The previous owner did mention that the OEM suspensions are still in use and may need replacement mostly as per personal wish.
I took it to my mechanic and he noticed that the front linkages had given way and were replaced. Since then the front is improved but the glide over bad/broken roads is missing, both from the front and rear end. I believe the rear issue is causing a more than normal body roll which causes fatigue while driving.
I need help regarding the following:
1. What could be the issue? I am assuming its the suspension, but want it to be a clean slate for now so that I can get all opinions.
2. Should I replace just the shock absorbers keeping the OEM springs, or replace both? I'm not really keen for lift since my parents use this vehicle too and anything higher will be an inconvenience for them.
3. Should the rear linkages be replaced?
4. Anything else to be checked/replaced for a great ride?
I read a couple of forums of Aussie users and came across Kings, TJM, TJM Gold, KYB Excel G (an Aus user wasnt happy with this one, and this is easily available in India), Old Man, Koni and Bilstein.
Which one of these is the simplest, cheapest and most reliable one to get for my Prado?
I want something that takes away the roll, helps me sail over bad roads and should last long? Dont know, but is it too much to ask for?
OEM suspension overhaul will cost $20,000 equivalent over here, which I think is too high.
Looking forward to your replies.
Moby.
