’99 LX470 Strutmasters Swap – Front Sag from AHC Torsion Bars? Upgrade Now or Wait for Lift Kit?

[lxcruzr]

I just got a 99 Lexus LX470 that had the Strutmasters hydraulic conversion kit (TF14F) before I got it. I noticed something off with the suspension and also I think the front is sagging a bit and after researching the problem I found that it is likely due to the original AHC torsion bars not being replaced with non-AHC torsion bars from the LC or aftermarket ones from OME, Ironman, Dobinsons, Cruiser Patch, etc. My first question is does anyone have recommendations on which to go with? From my research I’ve found that the Cruiser Patch ones are close to the original LC non-AHC ones at 29.5 mm minor diameter and 1160 length with OME being close to that at 30.4 mm and 1160 length. Additionally, I was planning on eventually getting the basic/stage one Dobinsons 2” lift kit setup and bigger tires so these torsion bars would be replaced down the road but now I’m having serious second thoughts on if should get the Dobinsons kit now. So I would like to get feedback/recommendations from the community on what I should do. Thanks!

 

[BEG]

What are your plans as far as adding weight? Thicker torsion bars make for a pretty awful ride on stock or close-to-stock vehicles (I have a lot of add-ons and still run OEM non-AHC bars). If you can score a set of non-AHC take-offs, that's probably your best bet. Otherwise, it looks like Patch's bars are a good option.

 

[lxcruzr]

What are your plans as far as adding weight? Thicker torsion bars make for a pretty awful ride on stock or close-to-stock vehicles (I have a lot of add-ons and still run OEM non-AHC bars). If you can score a set of non-AHC take-offs, that's probably your best bet. Otherwise, it looks like Patch's bars are a good option.

I just found out that the strutmaster front shocks need to be replaced, probably because the vehicle was running on AHC torsion bars for too long. My plan is to replace the full stock height, suspension system with Dobinsons gas shocks, torsion bars, and springs. In a year or two I plan on getting dissent front and rear bumpers as well as sliders, which will all put me close to 300 lbs I believe.

 

[BEG]

I just found out that the strutmaster front shocks need to be replaced, probably because the vehicle was running on AHC torsion bars for too long. My plan is to replace the full stock height, suspension system with Dobinsons gas shocks, torsion bars, and springs. In a year or two I plan on getting dissent front and rear bumpers as well as sliders, which will all put me close to 300 lbs I believe.

Yeah, I have all the Dissent stuff, front, rear and roof. Plus skid plates, drawers and family of 5 with a dog and luggage to match. I still don't need thicker torsion bars. My recommendation is to do Patch's bars and get an Eibach Pro Truck kit with the HD springs for a comfortable ride. If you have your heart set on the Dobinsons, there's nothing wrong with it, but it might be a rougher ride than you are anticipating.

 

[lxcruzr]

Yeah, I have all the Dissent stuff, front, rear and roof. Plus skid plates, drawers and family of 5 with a dog and luggage to match. I still don't need thicker torsion bars. My recommendation is to do Patch's bars and get an Eibach Pro Truck kit with the HD springs for a comfortable ride. If you have your heart set on the Dobinsons, there's nothing wrong with it, but it might be a rougher ride than you are anticipating.

That is extremely helpful. I really appreciate it. Thank you greatly.

 

[Octous]

I run stock torsion bars on the front and have a winch and ARB deluxe bumper mounted up there. If you're having sagging in the front might be worth considering reindexing the bars before going aftermarket.