I've driven my 99 Landcruiser since Jan 2004, 200k on the odometer, 140k are mine. Only slightly modified in the past few years- regular Bilsteins, sliders and last year some Airlift bags in the original coils to offset the mush.
I went about researching lift options primarily to firm the handling, not as interested in increasing clearance so much. Ironman Performance package with foam cell shocks, and the new torsion bars and a Slee diff drop is where I ended up after talking with some trusted folks here on mud, and a friendly holiday discount from Camel 4x4.
Initial impressions are very positive. In reading several threads on lifts, and the Ironman product, "ride quality" and "firmness" are very subjective. I'll say that I enjoy cruising at 75 down the interstate as well as maybe 2 outings for light to moderate wheeling per year. The step up in firmness is very welcome, and not overdone at all- I'm very pleased with the feel. And this is with a lightly loaded truck- no bumpers or added weight except the Slee sliders.
One key to mention for those like me(not serious offroaders)--be thoughtful on tire selection. I've used Michelin LTX MS exclusively for the past 9 years. When I took the truck in last week for 90k service, new steering rack and lift install, I also had Toyo AT2s, 285/75/16 installed. I don't recommend a new lift and a new tire size at the same time-too much going on here.
After a few days, I realized the ATs are not what I need for everyday- simply too heavy. I had the Toyos switched out for new Michelins and the ride feel improved dramatically. The Toyo ATs will be used for when I need them on an outing-and not everyday driving. They look great, but simply unnecessary for my daily driving.
I netted approx 1 3/4" lift over stock. 20 1/2 " front hub to fender, 22 1/2" in the rear for about a 2 inch rake- I like it this way. Droop feels fine, but will have to measure- I went over several speed bumps with no issues. I have confidence now that when I load up the back with camping equipment, etc- the truck will be very surefooted at all speeds. Cornering at high, or low speed is fantastic with the new torsion bars.
Understanding there are many options out there for lifts, firming ride and improving 'looks' and too many tire choices, it can be confusing. Just think about what matters to you and your application- there's a wide range of user application and experiences from mall cruisers to ' Spresso here on Mud to get advice.
Perhaps I could have tinkered with some new coils and cranked my OEM Tbars or considered other products. Just wanted to share that I'm happy where I ended up, and consider my 99 Cruiser to be back to new again- honestly believe the ride quality I have now should have been OEM engineered from day one. Before/after pix below.
Cheers.
I went about researching lift options primarily to firm the handling, not as interested in increasing clearance so much. Ironman Performance package with foam cell shocks, and the new torsion bars and a Slee diff drop is where I ended up after talking with some trusted folks here on mud, and a friendly holiday discount from Camel 4x4.
Initial impressions are very positive. In reading several threads on lifts, and the Ironman product, "ride quality" and "firmness" are very subjective. I'll say that I enjoy cruising at 75 down the interstate as well as maybe 2 outings for light to moderate wheeling per year. The step up in firmness is very welcome, and not overdone at all- I'm very pleased with the feel. And this is with a lightly loaded truck- no bumpers or added weight except the Slee sliders.
One key to mention for those like me(not serious offroaders)--be thoughtful on tire selection. I've used Michelin LTX MS exclusively for the past 9 years. When I took the truck in last week for 90k service, new steering rack and lift install, I also had Toyo AT2s, 285/75/16 installed. I don't recommend a new lift and a new tire size at the same time-too much going on here.
After a few days, I realized the ATs are not what I need for everyday- simply too heavy. I had the Toyos switched out for new Michelins and the ride feel improved dramatically. The Toyo ATs will be used for when I need them on an outing-and not everyday driving. They look great, but simply unnecessary for my daily driving.
I netted approx 1 3/4" lift over stock. 20 1/2 " front hub to fender, 22 1/2" in the rear for about a 2 inch rake- I like it this way. Droop feels fine, but will have to measure- I went over several speed bumps with no issues. I have confidence now that when I load up the back with camping equipment, etc- the truck will be very surefooted at all speeds. Cornering at high, or low speed is fantastic with the new torsion bars.
Understanding there are many options out there for lifts, firming ride and improving 'looks' and too many tire choices, it can be confusing. Just think about what matters to you and your application- there's a wide range of user application and experiences from mall cruisers to ' Spresso here on Mud to get advice.
Perhaps I could have tinkered with some new coils and cranked my OEM Tbars or considered other products. Just wanted to share that I'm happy where I ended up, and consider my 99 Cruiser to be back to new again- honestly believe the ride quality I have now should have been OEM engineered from day one. Before/after pix below.
Cheers.
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