New LX Owner! First question...

[drjman]

Just tonight I purchased my first LC.

(its dark, so this is the only pic i could get, more to come)
A 1998 LX (238k) with perfect, dealer maintained records and typical repairs recently done (Timing, boots, valve cover gaskets, tires). There are a few minor things I need to fix but overall its in great shape. Its a California truck so absolutely no rust.

I've been stalking this site during my search and finally jumped head first in to the cruiser world tonight.

For my first question:
The rear shocks and springs were recently replaced (due to failed AHC) and the front drivers side shock is toast. They purchased a strutmaster kit for the rear and Lexus installed it. Could they have possibly left the AHC shocks in the front? Their dealer record only shows rear suspension replacement.

I want to just order OEM's for the front and call it a day. No lifting for now.

Thanks for your help and it is great to be here finally!

 

[drjman]

To clarify, there are strutmaster shocks in the front. Is it safe to assume the torsion bars were replaced too (since its not resting on the ground)?

 

[Sandroad]

Welcome to MUD! Nice find. There are AHC and suspension experts on here, but I'm not one of them. You'll get help soon. I'm envious of no rust!

 

[PabloCruise]

Congrats! I would assume nothing. What do the receipts say was done/replaced?

 

[PADDO]

To clarify, there are strutmaster shocks in the front. Is it safe to assume the torsion bars were replaced too (since its not resting on the ground)?

I wouldn't assume they spent any more money than they had too. Measure the thickness of the torsion bars and if they're approximately 25.4mm (I swear the last time I measured these I got 25.1mm) then they are AHC specific and they've likely indexed and cranked to get by - sort off. I believe OE conventional bars are approximately 28mm. The various bar thickness details are buried in here somewhere.

 

[drjman]

I wouldn't assume they spent any more money than they had too. Measure the thickness of the torsion bars and if they're approximately 25.4mm (I swear the last time I measured these I got 25.1mm) then they are AHC specific and they've likely indexed and cranked to get by - sort off. I believe OE conventional bars are approximately 28mm. The various bar thickness details are buried in here somewhere.

Just measured them and they are a hair thinner than an inch, which is probably 25.1mm. Looks like i need new torsion bars!

 

[jLB]

Just tonight I purchased my first LC.

(its dark, so this is the only pic i could get, more to come)
A 1998 LX (238k) with perfect, dealer maintained records and typical repairs recently done (Timing, boots, valve cover gaskets, tires). There are a few minor things I need to fix but overall its in great shape. Its a California truck so absolutely no rust.

I've been stalking this site during my search and finally jumped head first in to the cruiser world tonight.

For my first question:
The rear shocks and springs were recently replaced (due to failed AHC) and the front drivers side shock is toast. They purchased a strutmaster kit for the rear and Lexus installed it. Could they have possibly left the AHC shocks in the front? Their dealer record only shows rear suspension replacement.

I want to just order OEM's for the front and call it a day. No lifting for now.

Thanks for your help and it is great to be here finally!

This kit?

1998-2007 Lexus LX 470 4 Wheel Hydraulic Suspension Conversion Kit (TF14F)

it appears to come with 4 shocks, & 2 rear coils. As Paddo suggests, you probably have the factory AHC torsion bars up front that are overloaded without the AHC shocks supporting some of the weight.

Congrats, nice looking truck!

 

[drjman]

This kit?

1998-2007 Lexus LX 470 4 Wheel Hydraulic Suspension Conversion Kit (TF14F)

it appears to come with 4 shocks, & 2 rear coils. As Paddo suggests, you probably have the factory AHC torsion bars up front that are overloaded without the AHC shocks supporting some of the weight.

Congrats, nice looking truck!

Thanks!
That's definitely the kit. I'll probably just crank the drivers side for now until I can find a used pair of bars. Thanks everyone!

 

[JURELCATCHER]

Hi drjman.. Congrats on the nice rig! Noticed you live in Yorba Linda.. I work at the Acura dealer on the corner of La Palma & Weir Canyon, and would be more than happy to give you a hand with any mechanical issues you may have.

 

[Sandroad]

MUD is awesome. Within a few hours you got your question answered and and an offer of help.

 

[drjman]

Thanks all! I just picked up a 30mm socket. My front end is really harsh on the bumps. I'm hoping that getting the drivers bar level will help until I can get stock LC bars.


Sent from my iPhone

 

[drjman]

I cranked up the drivers side and its even now. The ride is a world of difference. No more bottoming out!
I bought it Friday night, took it to New Jack City on Saturday and Big Bear on Sunday. I am really, really happy with this thing. I need to get rid of these AHC bars. I can't decide on OME or used LC bars. I've been spending a lot of time reading through the numerous threads on suspension ride quality. lol

I think this is the first snow it's ever seen. Was a champ in it.

 

[drjman]

Hi drjman.. Congrats on the nice rig! Noticed you live in Yorba Linda.. I work at the Acura dealer on the corner of La Palma & Weir Canyon, and would be more than happy to give you a hand with any mechanical issues you may have.

I appreciate the offer!

 

[JURELCATCHER]

You're welcome