Springs and Ride Heights for your 4x4

When selecting springs

Always inspect the vehicle carefully - never order a set of springs for a 4x4 vehicle without inspecting the vehicle first and qualifying the use of the vehicle and the accessories fitted. Also check whether other accessories will be added in the future (eg: bull bar, winch, roofrack, draw system, long range fuel tank, water tank, rear tyre carrier etc).

It may be necessary to mix and match (standard height and raised) springs front to rear to suit the loads the vehicle carries. Never assume the vehicle is at standard ride height, many owners may not be aware that a previous owner has already modified their vehicle. Always check the springs fitted to the vehicle, eg: Aftermarket coil springs are often painted a different colour to Original Equipment coils and can be identified easily. Leaf springs are usually all black so it is harder to identify an Aftermarket leaf spring or a modified leaf pack. Look for any extra leaves that may have been added to the pack, these often have a different end cut to them. If the vehicle has already been fitted with Aftermarket or modified springs, be aware that fitting new springs may not give the height change expected.

Ride heights

Coil Springs generally provide a 10mm lift over New Vehicle Original Ride Height for Standard (Std) height, and 40mm lift over New Vehicle Original Ride Height for Raised (Rsd) height. The heights are for unladen applications.

Torsion Bars must be reset to achieve the required height. Torsion bars are designed to improve handling and carry constant load increases. eg. bull bar and winch. Leaf Springs generally provide a 40 to 50mm lift over new vehicle original ride heights unless otherwise specified. All heights listed are a generalisation only and can vary depending on the vehicle type, condition and age of the vehicle, accessories fitted etc.

Before fitting springs

Always measure the vehicle height before removing the old springs. To ensure accurate measurements place the vehicle on a level surface and check all tyre pressures. Measure each corner from the centre of the wheel to the mudguard and keep a record of these measurements.

After fitting springs

Always road test the vehicle before measuring the new ride heights. Measure each corner from the centre of the wheel to the mudguard and keep a record of these measurements. If you experience any height related vehicle problems in the future, these measurements will prove invaluable. Often unlevel coil sprung vehicles require spacers to level the vehicle.

Remember to retighten all U bolts after 1000kms.