Lift with Airbags?

[Nikita]

Hi guys,

I just recently replaced airbags on my 2005 GX470. Now shock absorbers started leaking so I need to make a decision if I stay at stock or lift it up. I would love to get it up higher on 1-1.5 inch, however I would like to preserve airbag system. Airbags do add smoothness of the ride.

Is this possible to lift GX740 and preserve Airbag system?

Thanks
Nikita

 

[GXO]

If you get a proper coil conversion with the right shock it rides better than airbags and is way more reliable.

 

[HomersCanyonero]

Yes. For 3 years, I ran the rear air bags with a lift. Search for air bag trick. I have information in my build thread on how to trick the rear air bags and get like a 1.5” rear lift.

front was lifted 2 1/4” and I had a level stance. Try it out and see if you like the ride. Nothing to lose since it’s a free lift, but ride won’t be a soft as you think.

i recommend that you use the same shock brand in front and rear to avoid mismatching valving technologies like progressive vs Linear vs what icon/Bilstein (digressive) use.

 

[Sixto Lezcano]

If you get a proper coil conversion with the right shock it rides better than airbags and is way more reliable.

What is proper? There are thousands of threads with so much information it’s overwhelming. What does installation generally cost? Can any decent shop perform the conversion including airbag delete easily enough? Does conversion ride better on pavement or are you just talking off road?
Most entry level suspension kits cost $1k at least, and almost all require additional conversion kit which is $250. I assume install will run another 800-1000 so it’d better ride better...

 

[HomersCanyonero]

Suspension ride is so subjective and the various mods like tire load range, armor, springs/shocks, bushings age, etc. contribute to the ride quality.

This thread has some examples of costs and brands for low cost suspension modifications, but unless you ride in various setups...what works for me might not work for you.

GX470 Primer for the Ideal Mild-Build for Under $3000

You just got your GX470 and want to do a mild build to improve looks and off-road capability. You want to stand out over the mall cruisers and soccer moms, but want to keep costs under control. This primer doesn't consider any other repairs or basic maintenance your GX470 needs. First, lets...

forum.ih8mud.com

Oh and in terms of prices, I found a local independent shop that had done several GX470 coil conversions. I paid $200 labor to remove the airbags, air lines, air compressor, fuses, and install the dobinson variable rate coils 675V and the icon long travel MetalTech shocks 56550. I supplied all the parts. Took under 2 hours to complete.

 

[Nikita]

Yes. For 3 years, I ran the rear air bags with a lift. Search for air bag trick. I have information in my build thread on how to trick the rear air bags and get like a 1.5” rear lift.

front was lifted 2 1/4” and I had a level stance. Try it out and see if you like the ride. Nothing to lose since it’s a free lift, but ride won’t be a soft as you think.

i recommend that you use the same shock brand in front and rear to avoid mismatching valving technologies like progressive vs Linear vs what icon/Bilstein (digressive) use.

Thank you for pointing me into the right direction! Thats what I was looking for!