AHC Constant Height Capacity

[TeCKis300]

I continue to be happy with the AHC system on the LX570. I have yet to find its upper bound in constant height capability. That is the ability to maintain normal height without dropping into low. Unlike the LX470 before it, that AHC system had about a 1100 lb capability for stock height performance, before it would drop lower than normal height with an "L" on the display, transferring some of the load into the coil springs much like a standard suspension cruiser.

Here's my LX with about 1600 lbs of load (x14 bags of 90 lb concrete plus family). I can feel the weight, but the suspension doesn't much care riding as smooth and damped as it does empty.

Then again, I knew it would as I'm well into 2000lbs when towing my Airstream along with vacation gear in car. It isn't quite stock though as I've augmented for load by adding 20mm worth of spring spacers to the rear. Still stock height with no AHC sensor lift.

LX570 Augmenting for Load

I added a 10mm spacer to each spring at the rear axle. Intent is to add a bit more support to the AHC system, as I tow a heavy 27' Airstream travel trailer. This exact same mod could be done to an LC too, but will result in lifting ~1/2". While the LX570 never asked for it, this is a well...

forum.ih8mud.com

I have found approximately the limit at which point AHC doesn't like to completely go into high. It's roughly just north of 1600lbs for a stock cruiser. With just the augmented rear suspension, I can get into high with 2000lbs reliably. Yet there are times it won't completely go into high with additional load when nose down with the trailer putting more weight still on cruiser for example.

I could add more spacer to the rear, though I suspect part of it is the front axle which is completely stock. I will at some point add an OEM LC shock spacer to the front.

 

[CJ3Flyer]

Very impressive. I am very new to the LX variant of the 200 platform. Your report is VERY encouraging.

1) Your LC roof rack, easy to install? My ‘13 roof rack is ok but short compared with the LC rack. Think I’d love the upgrade to the LC rack.

2) I am not running bumpers or substantial gear but I love AHC so far. I have the Toyota LC front spacers in the garage. I need to make the time to do it. It seems like they did a good job with AHC.

3) Are you running stock springs all-around or have you changed them out?

Thanks,
Chris

 

[TeCKis300]

AHC IMO, is what makes the LX as incredible as it is. The fact that it's as robust and durable, given the complexity and capability, is just another testament to Toyota's engineering ability.

1) Rack is easy. Only trick that one wants to be aware of is the procedure to remove screws, without dropping a blind bracket. Loosen both screws and back out to together rather than one completely after the other.

2) The stock system is well up to the task of just about anything. If you're doing a sensor lift, or carrying significant aftermarket gear, i.e. armor, then augmenting the system for additional weight wouldn't be a bad idea.

3) Yes, I'm all stock springs all around. Stock AHC ride height. Only modification is 20mm spacers added to the rear to allow better support to 2000lb payload.

 

[CJ3Flyer]

AHC IMO, is what makes the LX as incredible as it is. The fact that it's as robust and durable, given the complexity and capability, is just another testament to Toyota's engineering ability.

1) Rack is easy. Only trick that one wants to be aware of is the procedure to remove screws, without dropping a blind bracket. Loosen both screws and back out to together rather than one completely after the other.

2) The stock system is well up to the task of just about anything. If you're doing a sensor lift, or carrying significant aftermarket gear, i.e. armor, then augmenting the system for additional weight wouldn't be a bad idea.

3) Yes, I'm all stock springs all around. Stock AHC ride height. Only modification is 20mm spacers added to the rear to allow better support to 2000lb payload.

Thanks. Great tip on rack mount removal.