by AussieAnth on Wed May 07, 2014 8:44 pm
Hi All
I had a 2" EFS Elite suspension kit installed several weeks ago on my MN 2013 GLX dual cab. As I always had a bull bar and rear bar planned, I had heavy duty springs installed up front, and 150kg constant load rear leaf springs installed (I have an Ironman canopy also).
My 4x4 mechanic said when he handed back the keys, "you'll need a mouth guard to stop your teeth chattering", as it really firmed up the ride. Very direct handling, bugger all body roll, and a BIG improvement over the wallowing factory suspension setup. I know stiff ain't great for rough offroading, but it felt much nicer to drive on the black top.
Last Friday I installed an MCC rear Jack bar. The next day I drove to my mechanic to install the MCC bull bar, and I noted the back end felt a little soft or bouncy. On the way back, I was completely blown away by how much the handling has changed. Its basically back to feeling like factory. Body roll has returned, and it feels clumsier to drive again.
Is this to be expected? I know there are some EFS haters out there, but my mechanic swears by it, my mate has a Hilux with full bar work running a nice firm setup after 18months and its still firm and direct . Have the springs weakened? is this just the way it goes? Am I silly to expect the same handling after installing what cant be more than 100kg of steel onto the chassis?
I know the added weight is up front & back, so it might have a pendulum effect, comparing to passengers, gear & a tank of fuel which can weigh even more, but is more centered on the chassis.
Discussion?