what size spring lift for a capable tourer

[lambrover]

So what hight do people think is the best for a capable tourer.

[spudboy]

What vehicle?

Defender - for touring don't bother - they are high enough already.

Disco 1 - 2" lift is good, but so is stock height for touring. I put an OME kit on my D1 and got it lifted 2" at the same time as I have winch, extra batteries, etc, and it is probably 1" and a bit higher than standard now.

[Rangier Rover]

As a general compromise over most makes/models and from my personal experience (Not others) Around 2" cuts it. Or if you like 2" lift and 32" to 33" tyres will take you near anywhere with ease and wont need an engineers etcin most cases

cheers T

[weeds]

my limited touring i believe standard springs (not sagged) is fine i.e. i have not been caught out with clearance issues

although i have had the need to use my lockers and winch once to get me out of a bog, increase suspension height would not have helped

[SheldonA]

Variable. ie air springs. Lower on tarmac for cruising and raise if and when needed.

[lambrover]

Variable. ie air springs. Lower on tarmac for cruising and raise if and when needed.

I was going to go that way but it is expensive.

[isuzurover]

I was going to go that way but it is expensive.

Depends. My rear airspring setup wasn't any more expensive than a pair of good quality coils.

FWIW, I have done quite a lot of touring, with standard height king springs in the front and air springs in the rear. (previously I have standard height springs in the rear too). I haven't ever found the height inadequate (though I have 33's - so effectively a 1" lift compared to someone on 32s or 7.50s).

But I agree with thegrub!

[newhue]

Topics has gone a little cold but this is what I am doing for my expedition vehicle.
The goal is to have a loaded vehicle that sits level, and at standard height, and still ride like a defender. I'm going to run 33" tyres so pick up an inch of diff and body clearance easily.

I might be dreaming but this is the plan.

Spoke to Les Richmond Auto's about their range of numerous weighted and lengths in springs. They have a swap service so I can get a few sets and play with them to get it right. I don't like they way most spring manufacturers say medium or heavy duty, take your pick. There is too much guess work, and I have read enough to realise aftermarket springs often are too hard, or sag. And then the fix is go for a set of air bags.

So
Firstly fill the 130 up with all it's crap, fuel and water. Then a trip down to the weigh bridge is in order. Need a total, front and rear weight. This helps me determine where the weight lay. I have a fair bit if mid weight with sliders, fuel tanks, batteries, tools, awning, and water tank. In the back there is another water tank, 2 x spare tyres, hi lift jack, tirfer, recovery gear, canopy, fridge, food and camping gear. The front has the winch, Bbar, and lights.

From there I can buy and try with confidence using the springs graph at LRA. I can easily see what weighted spring I need to carry the weight. And best guess what height I need to return the vehicle back to standard height.

For ride comfort and shocks I was almost sold on a set of Bilsteins, but found Koni Raids delivered to my door for $1100. So with an adjustable shock designed for busses but converted for the 4x4 market, I figure these big mothers can control the dampening on my truck over anything. I think both Koni or Bilsteins will do you proud,

I'll let you know how it goes, should have it sorted over the next 4 or so weeks.

[Benny_IIA]

none really,

A pair of lr HD fronts and a set of good shocks is all.

Lift is for nissans.

[Blknight.aus]

no lift but depending on how you weight out you might want HD on the front, rear or both. Id suggest a trial run and then if you need it change the shocks to suit your driving style/required comfort level.

If your only after axle weights I might be able to get the mobile scales from work overnight.