Suspension lift with a daily driver and big family

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Joined
Dec 5, 2015
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Location
SE Asia
Greetings. (Sorry for lots of posts, but I didn't want to throw it all into one post).

I'm contemplating a new lift for my HZJ105. Ironman is the easiest for me to get in SE Asia. They offer a 2" and 4" lift. But also have coil spacers in 10, 20, and 30mm.

I had a 2" lift on my Tacoma with 31" tires with some cheap aftermarket sidesteps that were added before I purchased the vehicle. I felt like it was just the right height, not making it to hard for my short wife and kids to get in. But, the sidesteps were getting mangled from off-road trips.

So, the Land Cruiser is quite a bit different. I'm planning on 33" AT's, and at least a 2" lift. Does anyone out there have young kids and a similar setup? What's your experience been like with them getting in and out?

So main question is: 2 or 4" lift. I'd like 4" for our terrain here, but wonder if 2" would be the better compromise?

My 105 has some cheap side steps added, the kind that are not integrated into the mud flaps. I'm thinking of keeping these on for daily use, and removing them for difficult off-road trips. I'd like some sliders with steps, but not sure how it will be to have those custom made where I'm at.

Thanks for the help!
 
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This is a 105, so solid front axle.

What size tyres can a 105 clear with 2"? My 80 has 2" heavy progressive springs (More like 3") and currently wears 285/75/166s (33") and will get 35s when the time comes. With a naturally aspirated 1HZ, I'd stick with 33s, and for a daily driver, I'd go 2" or maybe 3".
 
This is a 105, so solid front axle.

What size tyres can a 105 clear with 2"? My 80 has 2" heavy progressive springs (More like 3") and currently wears 285/75/166s (33") and will get 35s when the time comes. With a naturally aspirated 1HZ, I'd stick with 33s, and for a daily driver, I'd go 2" or maybe 3".

I "think" I can fit 35's with 2" lift, but won't. It's quite the adjustment to move to a Diesel engine, this is my first one. She's got lots of low down torque, but feels a bit sluggish compared to my old Tacoma V6, or the V8 Cruisers. I think 35's would be a big power drain. Id like 255/85/16's, but I'd have to import then. Lots of 285/75/16's here though.

But! I love it. :). Almost 40 gallon tank, and near 20mpg. I can go forever. :)

I want a comfortable suspension, as the 105 rides a bit rough as is compared to the IFS 100's.
 
If you're going with the 285/75/16s... and it's a DD... and you've got lots of short people climbing in... I think the 2" is plenty.

My 100 has IronMan's 2" (ish) lift and roughly the same size tires - 275/70/18s (.33" taller). So, this is roughly how your's would sit:
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I think ^that^ with 2" more lift would have that "Hey, when are your tires getting here" look.
 
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My 100 has IronMan's 2" (ish) lift and roughly the same size tires - 275/70/18s (.33" taller). So, this is roughly how your's would sit:

Thanks for the info and the picture. How do you like your Ironman setup? I'm leaning that way as it's my easiest option. Thinking Foam Cell Pro's, but wasn't sure what springs to get. I don't plan on extreme mods, light bumper and winch, roof rack. Most of the time I'll be riding around with just the kiddos. I'd prefer to err on the comfort side of things. I figure I can always add spacers for a little "boost" later if needed.
 
I really like the IronMan stuff. I have the TBs, coils and Foam Cell shocks. I also have SPC UCAs.

I understand that the Pros are "better". I just haven't gotten any info on when that "better" would show up, e.g. I don't race. I don't jump. I don't do FS roads at 60 mph for hours. It's a pretty stock Land Cruiser that lives 99% of its life on pavement and sees some mild trails 3-4 times a year.

I like the ride more than stock. It's a bit stiffer but not harsh. Very (!) little brake dive, handling feels like it did when stock.
 
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33" possible without the lift / spacer ?


2006 TLC 100 IL

Yes. we've got a 2006 w/ AHC, otherwise stock, and are running 275/70/18 which is 33.16"

as for the OP, i'd think stick w/ 2" with family and as a DD. i've got a 2.5" lift on my GX w/ no step. my 7 year old does just fine getting in, and our 3 year old would need assistance with or without the lift.
 
Did anyone try to fit the 200 AHC suspension into 100 AHC ?
I think the 200 has 1" extra travel - don't know for sure
Maybe it's possible to get the perfect combination of 33" with extra travel AHC suspension....
What you think?


2006 TLC 100 IL
 
Did anyone try to fit the 200 AHC suspension into 100 AHC ?
I think the 200 has 1" extra travel - don't know for sure
Maybe it's possible to get the perfect combination of 33" with extra travel AHC suspension....
What you think?


2006 TLC 100 IL
Good thought. Though I'm a 99 105, so no AHC for me. Mines pretty simple! Just realized tonight I don't even have map lights! Will have to pull some from a junker or get a roof console. :). But, a welcomed trade-off for that solid front axel. :)
 
i said that.
 
lol. what a pin in the ass that would be. and where would you keep it?
 
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