4WD Vehicle Setup

If you are thinking of upgrading the suspension in your 4WD and want to know the facts about how to best setup your vehicle then KEEP READING!

So lets set the record straight, the Springs whether a Leaf spring or Coil spring are designed to carry weight - Not the shock absorbers! The shock absorbers are there to control the motion of the spring.

The Rear Springs are manufactured to a specific Spring Rate from the 'Comfort' 0-300Kg Light Load followed by the 300Kg Constant Load to the extreme heavy duty 500KG Constant Load. Constant Load refers to weight that is added to the vehicle and will remain in the vehicle at all times! This includes fixed accessories such as canopy, long range fuel tank, spare wheels, bulbar, winch, roof top accessories, tool boxes, trade equipment etc..

The Front springs are also available in different spring rates to suit the heavy accessories fitted to the front of the vehicle.

Most of our lift kits feature the option to choose the spring rate for the front and rear allowing you to customise the kit to suit your needs!

To help understand the different Spring Rates we have listed a few examples:

0-300KG Light Load

(Upgrade from OEM)     Suitable for everyday use unloaded whilst being perfect for the weekend getaway when there is a light amount of extra gear in the back or occasional towing.

Not suitable for Heavy Constant Load.

300KG Medium Load Constant

Suitable for vehicle with Constant Load of 300kg+. Constant Load being weight that is always in the vehicle equal to 300KG+ such as; tool box, draw system, spare wheel carrier or regular towing.

500KG Heavy Load Constant

Suitable for vehicle with Constant Load of 500kg+. Constant Load being weight that is always in the vehicle equal to 500KG + such as; tool box, draw system, spare wheel carrier or regular towing.

The same theory can be applied to all springs designed to carry a Constant Load.

The most accurate way to understand what spring rate you require is to calculate the weight of the additional accessories and also consider how the vehicle is used, here are two different scenarios to consider;

1. A Trades person whose vehicle is loaded with tools, equipment and a trailer hitched 7 days a week would likely require the Constant Load springs.
2.  An unloaded vehicle used in a general manner, but takes the family on holiday a few times a year would likely suit the Light Load option as the heavy springs would impact the ride quality in everyday use.

Here is a great clip from Tough Dog explaining the difference between the 0-300kg springs and Constant Heavy Load springs.

 

We hope this information helps you make the right choices to ensure the best setup for your 4WD!

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