Thread: D4 /RRS suspension servicing or repairs

I have been trying to track down without any luck the finer details of the suspension in the D4, in particular articles relating to its reliability, serviceability and if it breaks down in remote areas what can be done?

as an example, say, if one was traveling the canning stock route. i have read many times that new vehicles (LC, Hi-Lux, patrol etc etc) or used vehicles with new (conventional but high quality) suspension can often make it to the end but then need new shocks or springs or both sometimes, the track with all its corrugations can be very damaging to components, particularly since people often load their vehicles to the max (or more) for trips such as this, or drive quite hard.

i was reading about the Jeep Grand Cherokee and its air suspension, it presumably learnt something from the LR system but i believe it might be different in some ways, the GC is a sealed pressurised system, which they say is better then an open system such as LR's?

i can see schematics on what GC parts would be needed to replace (getting those parts might not be as easy in say broome, who knows) and a special tool needed (approx $550) for the suspension servicing (can't imagine many people are going to have that tool). the GC also says it needs nitrogen 99.99% pure to do the servicing job which i am assuming might be difficult thing to get to or be available in country towns, but maybe not?

does the LR need nitrogen? my guess is it doesn't. does it need any special tools?

i havnt so far been able to find any information from people that have taken a GC up the canning stock route. i have seen and heard of them going to the top of the cape but usually just from dealers, and of course they arnt going to mention any problems. i know the D4 and RRS have done all these trips repeatedly from reading people on the forum and also some of LR clubs have pictures and stories.

but i haven't heard how any suspension problems are dealt with in remote areas?


any help appreciated.

cheers
chippy

The system uses air and an air compressor.

Air bags are robust and although they do deteriorate with age, failures are virtually unheard of.
Air lines and the compressor are vulnerable to damage. Air compressor, valves and sensors can fail.

If the system fails the vehicle lowers to the bump stops. If the tyres are the standard size (or one size larger) it can be driven on the bump stops however it is not very comfortable. Of course clearance is reduced considerably.

In the event of compressor/valve failure or air line damage Gordon from GOE sells a kit which will enable the faulty part to be bypassed or the damaged line to be replaced. It is called an emergency inflation kit and can be found here. He also sells a protection plate for the compressor.

Generally the compressor gives plenty of warning before dying however the old style Hitachis have broken conrods without notice and the newer AMK is too new to know.

Shock absorbers and air bags can be replaced independently however most people replace them together as they can be bought assembled.

I don't recall any special tools being required for any work, however patience is a virtue.

I wouldn't be going anywhere too far into the interior without the GOE inflation kit and front and rear sensors as it is cheap insurance.