2011 LC shock replace Bilstein 4600 - OK with KDSS?

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U

UVNH

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Jan 4, 2017
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Original rear shocks need replacing at 110K miles.

Ordered front and rear Bilstein 4600s, no need for lift or specialized suspension.

Bilstein fitment guide says it fits 2011 LC "Without Self-Leveling Suspension"

As far as I know, all 2011 USA LCs have KDSS.

Can I use these Bilstein shocks? (Front 24-214018, Rear 24-152938 )?

Does my non-dealer installer need to do anything special around the KDSS?

Also putting in new rotors and brakes (will be 2 set from new) using Power Stop Z36 set.

Thanks!
 
I assume they mean you can't install on the LX with AHC. KDSS isn't self leveling. And yes the installer needs to know how to work around KDSS. Search for the ARB KDSS instructions and circle the part about not turning more than 3 turns. Not sure I would have someone unfamiliar with KDSS do the install to be honest. I dunno it's not rocket science but too many stories of bad installs.
 
What @Mogwai said. ESPECIALLY the part about no more than three turns on the kdss screws. Going past that can result in an expensive repair at a dealer that even many of them don’t have the tools to complete.

Other than that a shock install isn’t a big deal on these.

Note that KDSS is just the hydraulically disconnecting swaybar on 2008+ landcruisers. Otherwise they have traditional springs and dampers.

The self leveling suspension is the “active height control” on Lexus LX570s. They have weaker metal springs and shocks that the system can apply pressure to to adjust height or damping characteristics. No bilstein options for these.
 
OK. Thanks. This LC has been through NH winters since new, so probably rusted valves. I'll try and find them and hit them daily with Kroil before I bring it in next week. Looks like 2 valves in one location?
 
Yes both are on the bottom of the same KDSS accumulator assembly, an inch or so apart. If you are having the shop bust them loose look up the KDSS warning thread. Those are little bolts you do not want to strip out.
 
From the ARB picture, it looks like the rear shocks could be replaced without detaching the rear sway bar. If that is correct, could the rear shocks only be done with messing with the KDSS valves?

ARB doc says KDSS only comes into play from front springs, front shocks, rear springs, and rear differential.

My big problem is rear shocks. I could wait until a dealer trip to do the front ones if KDSS valves prove to be stuck.
 
If you are only changing the rear shocks I don't see any reason you would need to open the KDSS valves. Unbolt the rear shocks and put in the new ones. If you are changing the rear springs then you need to open the KDSS valves.
 
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What @hedd said.
 
Can’t wait to hear about your results after install. I want to install these as well.
 
Ended up needing 4 calipers, so still at the shop (non-toyota). Rockauto seemed to have best prices by far. Mechanic declared KDSS valves frozen. WIll only install rear Bilsteins.

I'll talk to the dealer about the front shocks, but they don't see too many LCs around here. May just work the rust myself for a few weeks and see if I can break the KDSS valves loose.
 
Just to update- local mechanic replaced rotors, pads, calipers on all 4 wheels for 3 hours labor- $180. Broke his 5mm in the KDSS valves and said he didn't want to mess with the new Bilstein shocks.

Dealer just installed the shocks and replaced rubber bushings. They had to sandblast KDSS valves and weld nuts on them. 6 hours labor- $600. I was happy they were willing to install my 3rd party shocks and no surprises on the KDSS system.

Ride (and brakes) much improved.
 
I used aftermarket "Power Stop Z36" from JEGS for $375 for all 4 wheels.

They have mostly good reviews and some bad. I'm no expert. Seem fine to me so far but it's early days.
 
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