Failed AHC globes?

[LBridges]

2000 LX with no history for the AHC system (other than me replacing fluids about a year ago, tweaking TBs for proper front pressure, etc. Back is OK, don't think truck ever carried a load.

Wondering if I have a failed globe(s).

Ride has gotten rougher, not seeing any difference when switching from comfort to sport.

But I still have between 9 & 10 marks between Lo and Hi.

Truck is currently lent to my youngest so I haven't been able to test for nitrogen bubbles in the fluid or perform the 16 step test.

Do have Techstream.

Hoping someone can guide me in an efficient and effective diagnostic routine.

 

[Dannyboy lx470]

What is the 16 step test ?.

 

[LBridges]

What is the 16 step test ?.

See post #12 in this thread. Since I'm asking the questions above, I'm obviously not an expert. But my assessment of the test's purpose is to see if the individual actuators are working properly.

 

[PADDO]

For the normal front/rear combo of new globes at a healthy neutral pressure you'll return 14 grads on the reservoir. Toyota/Lexus recommends replacement when you're down to 7 grads (or 8 in Australia) so at 9-10 grads you're well into the diminishing performance zone. I changed mine out at 9ish, damping was ok but not great and nothing like new. Experiment with lower neutral pressures, try around 6.7 front and 5.7-6.0 for the rear to allow the damper accumulators a bit more opportunity to absorb fluid transients. Fresh fluid and bleed if it's been a while. It's a balancing act between getting the optimim ratio of mechanical spring response to gas spring response for the system as it, and the vehicle, generally ages. If your globes are original then 16+ years of service isn't too bad.

 

[LBridges]

For the normal front/rear combo of new globes at a healthy neutral pressure you'll return 14 grads on the reservoir. Toyota/Lexus recommends replacement when you're down to 7 grads (or 8 in Australia) so at 9-10 grads you're well into the diminishing performance zone. I changed mine out at 9ish, damping was ok but not great and nothing like new. Experiment with lower neutral pressures, try around 6.7 front and 5.7-6.0 for the rear to allow the damper accumulators a bit more opportunity to absorb fluid transients. Fresh fluid and bleed if it's been a while. It's a balancing act between getting the optimim ratio of mechanical spring response to gas spring response for the system as it, and the vehicle, generally ages. If your globes are original then 16+ years of service isn't too bad.

Thanks, I will recheck pressures and adjust for some lower values.