Cheaper Conversion to springs from AHC

[sailor95]

I saw this online and was wondering if anybody had tried it with success, seems like a much cheaper option than switching to OME or some of the other brands http://www.strutmasters.com/Lexus-LX-470-4wl-Suspension-Conversion-Kit-p/tf14f.htm

 

[DarkPharf]

Doesn't look that much cheaper. You just get shocks and Springs in the Strutmaster kit. in the Slee OME kit you also get front torsion bars, diff drop and in some kits upper control arms.

 

[sailor95]

Ahh would definitely go the OME route then, im at 288k and my AHC is still working nicely, it is starting to adjust itself more though like at stoplights and such. Rides great though.

 

[uHu]

Ahh would definitely go the OME route then, im at 288k and my AHC is still working nicely, it is starting to adjust itself more though like at stoplights and such. Rides great though.

It is supposed to adjust itself at stoplights and such. That's what it does - AUTOmatic Height Control - it adjusts the pressure according to conditions, and conditions are normally different between standing still and driving.

 

[Traskew3]

I drive around with it off, shd I turn it on?

 

[Brock]

I replaced mine as it was having hard time keeping the weight of full front and rear bumpers, 12k winch, rear swingout tire carrier with nitto trail grapplers and hi-lift hanging on them, sliders, etc...

So bought a set of shocks and springs (rear coils and front torsion bars) from Ironman Offroad....


Ripped out all hydraulic lines, load sensors, actuators, resevoir/pump, etc....and installed the LC suspension from IronMan and never looked back. One of best things I have done....

 

[PADDO]

I drive around with it off, shd I turn it on?

It should turn itself back on above 50mph.

 

[sailor95]

About how much did it cost you to do all this, i definitly see this is my future in the next year or so.

 

[Ok29445]

I'm about to convert my 2000 LX470 to a standard Land Cruiser type factory set up. I found some used rear coil springs on EBay and buying new KYB shocks at a local auto parts place. The springs cost me $65 each and about $300 for the new shocks. I'll adjust my stock Torsion bars to see if they feel adequate. No off-roading for me so stock ride is fine. I'll post pics after I'm done.

 

[PADDO]

View attachment 1036695 I'm about to convert my 2000 LX470 to a standard Land Cruiser type factory set up. I found some used rear coil springs on EBay and buying new KYB shocks at a local auto parts place. The springs cost me $65 each and about $300 for the new shocks. I'll adjust my stock Torsion bars to see if they feel adequate. No off-roading for me so stock ride is fine. I'll post pics after I'm done.

You'll need non AHC torsion bars to support the front. AHC bars are much lighter, being only 25mm dia, than non AHC bars at 30mm.

 

[Ok29445]

I've read where some guys have just cranked them a couple clicks to lift it back up. If that doesn't work I'll be buying new t bars.

 

[super90]

Paddo is correct....you'll be buying new t-bars

 

[uHu]

Also, used coils will have sagged. If it were me, I would look for used TBs (not too old) and new coils.

 

[Ok29445]

Since im not looking for any lift, I just want to get rid of the worn out AHC system. My LX has 208K miles and runs perfect otherwise. The used coils I bought came off a 2002 LC with only 56K miles so they should be near enough for my needs.

I'll price new T-Bars or are used ones ok to use for stock height?

I'm new here but have 40 years experience wrenching on my own rides. Thanks for the info, much appreciated!

 

[PADDO]

Since im not looking for any lift, I just want to get rid of the worn out AHC system. My LX has 208K miles and runs perfect otherwise. The used coils I bought came off a 2002 LC with only 56K miles so they should be near enough for my needs.

I'll price new T-Bars or are used ones ok to use for stock height?

I'm new here but have 40 years experience wrenching on my own rides. Thanks for the info, much appreciated!

Go with uHu's recommendation and procure used TBs and coils that haven't been in compression for 13 years, I'd look at OEM shocks through one of the supporting vendors for around $150. You'll get no shortage of advice here, some of it will actually be relevant and accurate too. And Welcome, ripping out AHC will immediately endear you to at least half the active members here

 

[Ok29445]

So gently used torsion bars up to what year would fit my 2000 LX? I can buy the used TB's same place I bought the used rear coil springs for about $100 off an 02 LC with only 57K.
As the thread subject is "cheaper AHC conversion" I'm looking at used parts that will give me a stock ride height and street ride. If I wanted a lift I'd surely go OME.

 

[PADDO]

So gently used torsion bars up to what year would fit my 2000 LX? I can buy the used TB's same place I bought the used rear coil springs for about $100 off an 02 LC with only 57K.
As the thread subject is "cheaper AHC conversion" I'm looking at used parts that will give me a stock ride height and street ride. If I wanted a lift I'd surely go OME.

98 thru 07 2UZ 100 series non AHC torsion bars will work just fine. Check out ih8mud classified section, you can probably pick up everything you need for the cost of shipping, maybe even a local pick up for free!

 

[Mike Doud]

So gently used torsion bars up to what year would fit my 2000 LX? I can buy the used TB's same place I bought the used rear coil springs for about $100 off an 02 LC with only 57K.
As the thread subject is "cheaper AHC conversion" I'm looking at used parts that will give me a stock ride height and street ride. If I wanted a lift I'd surely go OME.

 

[Mike Doud]

Hey OK, getting ready to do a similar change from AHC to OEM. did you go OEM with the LC torsion bars? are you happy with the ride?

 

[Ok29445]

I simp

Hey OK, getting ready to do a similar change from AHC to OEM. did you go OEM with the LC torsion bars? are you happy with the ride?

I still have the LX Torsion bars, I managed to reindex them to get more adjustment out of them but they are still a bit too soft for my liking. It rides very good in the rear with LC coils and new KYB shocks. The front end is sitting about 3/4" lower than before, even though I cranked up the existing LX bars. As Paddo and super90 commented....I'll be buying new T-bars!!! For now it's safer to drive than my non functioning AHC. So if anyone has a pair of OEM LC 98-07 T-bars and are anywhere near Charleston, SC I'd be happy to hear from you.