Use the right gear for that truck.
Dollar for dollar a suspension upgrade can create the most impressive change in the performance of a 4WD.
The choice is vast – replacement OEM-spec struts, coil springs, leaf springs and shock absorbers, suspension bushes, heavy duty aftermarket suspension arms – the only real limit is budget.
Last month’s My 4WD feature on Sean Goddard’s mighty Surf (pictured) demonstrates how far any 4WD owner can take the suspension upgrade process.
A word of caution: while extreme builds look great and enhance off-road capability, the vehicle is still subject to laws regarding such mods if it is to be driven on New Zealand roads.
It pays to be working with one eye on those laws and rules and keep up to date with low volume vehicle rules as well. Welding or cutting key suspension parts will usually require inspection and approval through the Low Volume Vehicle Technical Association.
The LVVTA’s Facebook page is chock full of some of the awful bodge-ups the certifiers are presented with on a daily or weekly basis. To paraphrase the message from the inspectors: ‘Don’t be THAT guy (or girl).
New Zealand has reputable suppliers and workshops that can help with this.
It’s also a good idea to jump on the web and do some research, particularly if the aim is to modify a 4WD not sold here in great numbers – like a Hummer or an F150.
Watch out for old mate at the local who insists his 50mm spacers and 70mm suspension lift are easy-peasy. “Just sailed through the WoF, mate.”
Kitting out a work double-cab ute? That big bullbar, that cool looking work box on the tray of your ’70 are great, but plan to upgrade suspension to improve handling and bump up the truck’s GVM.
Do the sums on the weight being added to the vehicle and then go to a reputable workshop to discuss the plan.
For recreational use it’s the same. Bullbar, winch, a fridge, tools for digging out of bogs, a custom cargo system, a roof rack and/or roof tent can all change handling for the worse.
Springs that suited the original weight of the truck will of course no longer be suitable for the intended use.
Do it once, do it right.
