Switchgear question on '05 LX470 (1 Viewer)

Location

United States

Hi all- I'm considering an '05 LX 470 at a used dealer lot. Generally it's in good shape, strong records, etc., but hadn't gone through detail when I saw/drove it. But there are two items I'd like feedback on:

1) Seemingly random switchgear installed against driver right leg / left side of center console. Truck has NightView but don't believe the switches are related. No aux lighting installed, etc. Are these factory switches or aftermarket? Any ideas on what to look / ask for? (Photo attached.)

2) Would lack of AHC / replacement with standard springs deter you from purchasing, if all else was good with the truck? AHC has been deleted (replaced with tradition springs in 2016) but seems factory AHC components & lines remain (in case I want to re-install). I know there are some threads in the forum and will read through them again, but curious about any reservation on not buying, given AHC vs. non-AHC debate?

Thanks, all.
-ohioandy

 

[GerLC100]

Switches look aftermarket to me, but hard to say what they're for.

In terms of AHC: quite some people delete it. Either because they want tougher offroading stuff or because repair is too expensive. I drive with the traditional setup, no AHC, and I'm happy. People choosing to keep AHC love it. So it mainly boils down to whether or not you like the drive.

 

[ohioandy]

Switches look aftermarket to me, but hard to say what they're for.

In terms of AHC: quite some people delete it. Either because they want tougher offroading stuff or because repair is too expensive. I drive with the traditional setup, no AHC, and I'm happy. People choosing to keep AHC love it. So it mainly boils down to whether or not you like the drive.

Thanks for the input. I’m going to ask the sales guy if the records indicate any aftermarket accessories. We turned them on/off and checked lights, brakes, etc, but no luck.

 

[hoser]

Ignore the aftermarket switches. It's not part of the purchase decision. If you end up buying, follow the wires to find out. The AHC delete though should be investigated more. If you have a micrometer, I would measure the diameter of the torsion bars. If they are around 25.5 mm, they are AHC bars and you'll have to replace.

Btw, the leather looks like aftermarket to me. Just an observation.

 

[GTV]

You'll have to follow the wires from the switches, no telling what they're for.

Missing AHC could either be from lack of proper maintenance or rust, given your location. Avoid rust.

 

[MongooseGA]

Being on this side of removing functional AHC in favor of hard off-road build, I'd do it again and keep the AHC (and hold out for a truck that still has it) . If you're not planning on carrying very heavy weight in the form of armor etc, it's the best suspension you're going to get on a 100. Many of us have come around to this, and there are plenty here who will strongly encourage keeping the system if it fits with your usage case.

 

[ohioandy]

Ignore the aftermarket switches. It's not part of the purchase decision. If you end up buying, follow the wires to find out. The AHC delete though should be investigated more. If you have a micrometer, I would measure the diameter of the torsion bars. If they are around 25.5 mm, they are AHC bars and you'll have to replace.

Btw, the leather looks like aftermarket to me. Just an observation.

Thanks very much. Will check the torsion bars.

 

[ohioandy]

Thanks again for the quick input. Truck is posted here, for anyone interested: Used 2005 LEXUS LX 470 For Sale at Volkswagen of Inver Grove | VIN: JTJHT00W954002762 - https://www.vwinvergrove.com/used/LEXUS/2005-LEXUS-LX+470-23d12df6ac181ef6793aec36fe8644a3.htm

It detailed up nicely and is very dry underneath (spent time in AZ until the past few years in MN, but seemingly sparingly and/or well-washed).