mitchmac wrote:Hey guys,
Looking at getting a bit more flex in the rear and like the idea of the RG swap.
Trying to work out how it all works. I was told my ute has a 2" suspension lift front and rear when I bought it. Few questions I'm thinking about at the moment:
- Would the lift installed already mean I have longer than standard springs and shackles?
- Are aftermarket springs for lifts longer than standard?
- Have people used standard RG springs or aftermarket?
- What length is a standard shackle and how do I measure them?
Has anyone done this/progressed or anything since this was active? Any updates/help appreciated.
Cheers
If you read ALL the posts above, you'll notice there are plenty of questions and very few answers. This is because changing out leaf spring packs from a Colorado to a Hilux is playing with fire in a way. Let me explain:
The Colorado Spring pack is engineered and designed to suit a Colorado
The Hilux Spring pack is engineered and designed to suit a Hilux
Just because they "might be able to be made to fit" the other vehicle does NOT mean it's a good idea.
Things like springs and suspension components are very specifically designed to suit the vehicle they are fitted to. If you choose to go ahead with this kind of mod you need to consider that you'll need to get engineering certificates to allow the vehicle to be road legal (in most jurisdictions).
I Australia I know that in the event of an accident (or something else going wrong) the investigators look for things like DIY modifications. If they find something you can bet quids you know what they'll blame.
If you have access to engineering certificates then play by all means, but if not, then may I suggest that there's a plethora of vehicle specific (both genuine & aftermarket) upgrades and lifts designed specifically for your vehicle that have already been engineer approved ... Often at much cheaper prices too.
The other thing to consider is the "Why" do I want to change my springs? Personally I upgraded mine from standard "Soft" to a mid range (load capacity) spring. Not fussed about lifts etc, just makes the vehicle more top heavy on some terrain. It was so that I could carry a little more load than an "Always Empty" ute that just takes the kids to school and back. Ideal for my purposes. The fishing gear is always available to me where-ever I am and I always have my recovery gear with me. A perfect setup for me.