Which suspension should I get? Gu Patrol. Help!?

Alex is choosing a new suspension setup for the GU Patrol, and he needs YOUR help! This video discusses the options on the table for shock absorbers and springs, so please weigh in with your opinions and experience in the comments.

[@zoezoe610]

My son has Tough Dog suspension on his GQ and it rides really nice and flexes as should.

[@keithdaly4434]

I have a 4.2TD GQ wagon set up for touring. I went with a 2 inch lift using Superior remote res shocks which I can adjust to cope with severe corrugations and the ride is awesome. Paired these with Dobinson springs 2 inch constant load in front and 3 inch no load in rear. I also had the hybrid radius arms and superflex sway bars fitted as got them mod plated to avoid any QPS/TMR issues over here in Qld with current blitz/focus on modified vehicles. I mainly went with the remote res as they are re-buildable and I am keeping the GQ for the duration. Good luck with your choice Alex 👍

[@dominicevans7430]

How many kms have you done on the superior shocks? Also looking to upgrade

[@offroadnfish4960]

I’m using the Dobinsons MRR shocks and Dobinson’s springs with air bags. I’m loving the setup. Great both on & off road.

[@petejones961]

I have a GU wagon and bought the Superior Engineering remote res shocks and I love em I have the front set to 4 and the rear set to 3 and its smooth as butter with all my accessories, bulbar, winch, roof rack, drawers etc.., you can crank em up hard for corrugations and soft for highway. They are also fully rebuildable and they have 12 months interest free too, buy now pay later, plus they look sick. These are tough shocks and I must admit, the ride difference is really noticeable between selections. I highly recommend them.

[@Alex.G]

At least being fully rebuildable you're only making the massive outlay once I suppose. Assuming you keep the vehicle long enough :) interest free is a good (maybe a little dangerous haha) way to go!

[@mikedoble729]

I’m using B6 off-road, standard springs on an isuzu mu-x. Tad firm on road but loaded off-road, FANTASTIC. Excellent control through washouts, great articulation, kinda gave me about 5-10mm lift too. Comfy enough with my daily load ( drawers and tools, fridge etc) but outstanding fully loaded to almost gvm. Have airbag man assistance too for those situations. Only ever put maybe 15psi in, all they need. Use a quality bike pump for that, saves getting the compressor out. Happy days . Hope my comment assists you in some way.

[@Alex.G]

Thanks for the comment Mike! Interesting that you got a bit of lift out of them on standard springs too! The bike pump idea is a good tip! Just a nice compact hand pump type one that can stash away in a drawer or something.

[@mikedoble729]

Intents Offroad yep, pump sits just inside the rear drawer

[@scottieisme]

Hi Alex, I have a similar setup in my S4 GU. Koni 82 shocks, 2” king springs with airbag assist and extended sway bar links. We did the Simpson crossing this year and probably close to another 2000km of corrugated dirt tracks. The koni 82s got very hot but handled it all really well. I’ve honestly been really surprised with how well they have handled everything and how comfortable the setup rides! My GQ Patrol I installed OME nitro shocks and springs and hated it! Was the roughest ride and I eventually changed to EFS shocks which improved the ride. Disclaimer; I did buy my GU with the suspension work already complete and 20k already done on it. Not 100% on spring loads but sounds like I have a similar setup in the rear to you. I’ve now done over 20k myself with a good mix of highway, dirt and beach driving and can’t fault the setup.

[@Alex.G]

sounds a little like my experience with the nitrocharger shock, They are bloody tough so I wonder if that's the trade off. You lose a bit of comfort in exchange for longevity maybe?

[@scubbarookie]

I did some research, and I now plan on getting the Dobinson's IMS shocks and heavy springs with 2" of lift... These are the non-resi's monotube , with 2.2" width. These are also rebuildable with high end parts and oils. I feel that these will be more reliable than resi equipped shocks, because of the leaking factor. Those resi's are attached to hoses that can be hit or slashed. Dobinsons also makes a 60mm shock! I'll be going with the 50mm. Take care bro.

[@Alex.G]

I like your thinking on reliability. I reckon you'll be pretty happy with that setup! I have a feeling the non-resi dobinsons came along after my decision, I could have been tempted otherwise 😁

[@deanwilliams6680]

Hi just seeing if you are happy with the set up I am thinking of going the same

[@ShoeysAdventures]

On my 150 Prado I have a 2" Koni HT Raid and Lovells HD Springs, its an absolutely amazing setup, made the Gibb feel like a tarmac road and really removes corrugations so well, combined with 25psi tyre pressure. so far 40,000km of hard work on them and not a single drama! Go see Lachy from WA Suspensions he will hook you up.

[@20DYNAMITE06]

Alex! I know nothing about suspension but that has never stopped me from offering my opinion on the internet. Regarding your air-bag conundrum, have you checked out spring stiffeners, aka coil spring helpers? They are a multi-cellular urethane foam insert that slide in between the coils and boost the spring rate. They are maintenance free and boost the load capacity of your springs between 10% to 20%, and they run only around $150 for a set and are easy to install. I'm not sure if they're legal in Australia, but they're commonly used here in the states when people put a snow plow on the front or add an especially heavy trailer, so it might be worth a google. An example of these are Supersprings made by a company called SumoSprings.

[@Alex.G]

Good onya Scott! The internet was made for dispersal of opinions! 😁 that's an interesting idea actually. I could theoretically purchase those 100kg king comfort springs and bolster the load capacity a little by using those helpers!

[@SC2Spectre]

I had a 2" Iron Man lift kit for my Patrol, worked like a charm, also got the adjustable front bushings.

[@Alex.G]

Yeah I think I'll get those castor correction bushes put in too. They reckon you can get away without them at 2 inch but I imagine it wouldn't handle as well. And given that a GU handles terrible as it is...I want to keep what little driveabliity it has 😂

[@bushnut8305]

My advice is buy once cry once. Just make sure you match the spring weight to your load. No mater what shocks you go with they need to be long enough to match the lift and the valveing needs to be tuned for the weight. A package of matched brand springs and shocks is not a bad idea as the engineers spent lots of time making sure their stuff works together. I had shit luck with iron man springs, sagged lower than stock in just a few months. Check out Timbren SES as a alternative to air bags. I’ve had good luck with them. In the end suspension is a wear item and the harder you drive it the faster they will need replacing

[@Alex.G]

That's a good point about matching springs and shocks actually. Makes a lot of sense. I too have grown more and more towards the buy once cry once mentality

[@toddmillar4041]

I haven't got a clue either, that's why I was very interested in the comments. Will have to come back later. A mate ran old man emus with a small lift (2" max) on a GQ ute and that was smooth as.

[@Alex.G]

Smoothness and a GQ ute aren't something you'd generally put in the same sentence, so he must have got something right!

[@chairmanoftehboard]

1. Reinforce the spring perches if you're putting in airbags. I thought it was cheap insurance which is why I did it. 2. My GU has ridepro springs and ridepro twin tube shocks. Its approx +150kg constant in the rear and I have helper airbags so it sits level at 50mm lift empty or towing. Feels comfortable enough to me. But definitely reinforce the spring perches.

[@Alex.G]

I'll look into that for sure, any idea where you got the reinforcement bits?

[@chairmanoftehboard]

@@Alex.G two companies make them: superior and boss. I got an engineering letter with the boss one but I didn't do a gvm upgrade anyway so not sure the letter is that valuable.

[@zacallen5590]

On my patrol I run dobinsons springs and dobinsons shocks, and they are great have done plenty of 4wd. The springs and shocks handles great on road and off. However if you do get the two inch lift it is better to extend sway bar endlinks because you will just keep snapping them. Superior Engineering make quick disconnect ones ($175 for front and rear), I run the dobinsons extended sway bar endlinks. Hope this helped, I swear by dobinsons.

[@Alex.G]

Yeah I busted a few swaybar end links on the old patrol with the 3 inch lift before I upgraded them 😄 I reckon I'd be going on the original ones until they snap and then do the upgrade.

[@UncannySense]

With my 97 mitsubishi Delica (limited options given the make) I went a full Dobisnson 40ml lift spring/HD torsion bar and twin tube shock kit . Aussie made/owned gear with good reviews at reasonable prices. $ saved went to new poly trailing/control arm bushings, upgraded swaybay links and an adjustable pan hard rod. The ride is firm but i havn't driven fully loaded yet to feel the difference. Originally drove like a boat. Anyway remote res is fairly new tech so i expected teething issues while in development regardless of manufacturer. Really happy with the springs, If/when the shocks wear out i might try something else, but I am not experiencing any issues with only 5000km on road wear. As for lift 40mm was enough, keeps it legal and keeps center of gravity down....that I want to still fit in my garage.

[@Alex.G]

Good to see a positive comment for the Dobinson springs there, and I can imagine the relatively top heavy nature of a Delica is a tricky thing for a shock absorber to control in cornering

[@UncannySense]

Definitely decent springs, I hear good things about Lovells too so depending on fitment and price I wouldn't disregard alternatives if applicable. You seem to be heading down your own path for shocks. I googled MMR reviews and got mixed results suggesting a rebuild at 30k maximum. I understand the better cooling offered by more oil, but the trade off is more potential failure points. If I was planning a long remote trip I think I would go Mono tubes and carry a additional front/back spares. And adjust driving habits to suit the conditions. Tough when funds are tight. It's why i went with twin tubes knowing that the lift would expose the next weekest link in the drive train...that being sway bar links and panhard alignment. I pay attention to recommended speeed caution cornering signs and stay away from undercover car parks :)

[@camfam52002]

I went Kings tapered HD and Bilstein B6 under my Prado 120. Hated it for three months until they softened up a bit. The Billies don't do so well with HD springs, not enough rebound control....but adequate for the price. For me it came down to residual market value of the car and keeping to a sensible budget for the build.

[@bigfella6629]

I'm quite happy with my standard height on my GU, I don't do anything really hard core at all. Wouldn't touch raw as a friend of mine had them on his hilux and they just kept breaking. Id go Dobinsons springs C45-129 and shocks GS45-115.

[@Alex.G]

Thanks Stevo :) Yup i'm yet to see a good comment for Raw in here...

[@4x4CampingandAdventures]

(unpopular opinion) Remote Res to me anyways seem like the next big fad in the 4wd industry everyone needs to have them for the status. More oil a bonus but most shocks are decent enough to handle corrugations etc think about 20 years ago when it was all single tube shocks and they did the exact same tracks as we do now with out a problem, so is there a need for them probs not. Some decent single tube shocks will be enough for the touring stuff you do Alex I would go with the Koni 88 but that's just me. Don't buy Raw I honestly haven't heard a good thing about them from anyone that has bought them

[@zoezoe610]

Totally correct many just get fancy gear purely for bragging rights and show.

[@20DYNAMITE06]

I totally agree. Unless you're running Dakkar or Baja, at ultra high speed it's a joke.

[@zoezoe610]

@@20DYNAMITE06 Yes most buy this stuff for status and bragging to mates.

[@aussiedrifter]

Spot On Mate, the only difference between 20 years ago & now besides the bragging rights was that back then the shocks were made of much sterner stuff & suited to 4X4 work, they were also considered an Offroad utility vehicle, not Mums shopping trolley. (+ you didn't need to take out another home loan for a service) These days you have wannabe weekend warriors who want that boulevard ride when driving the Telegraph track at 120kph or Bunnings speed humps at 60kph.----------------Just Saying----------------

[@4x4CampingandAdventures]

@@aussiedrifter haha mate you literally just explained the current 4wd culture to a tee 😂😂 I agree 100%

[@fantus6668]

I've got Bilsteins on my 40 and they are great! made the ride so much softer....well softer for an 40 year old tractor anyway........I imported mine from the US/summit racing...I like to buy from Aussie but the price difference at the time was huge!

[@Alex.G]

Yeah I guess it wouldn't be the case with the way our dollar is at the moment! Still may be worth looking into though...

[@justingarner5882]

I have a gq patrol it is 6” lifted but it has Dobinsons in at the moment and rides excellent, better than when it was standard and 3” lifted on Efs

[@MudducksTouringAustralia]

Hi mate I had a GU with 500kg King springs, I did have a Kmar rear bar, long ranger 145ltre sub tank and roller draws with tools, fridge and such. The 2 inch coils I had needed a 30mm spacer to sit at the right height for my liking. (I like a slight nose down look), with all this I ran Tough Dog Adjustable shocks, not a bad shock but these days Id like the remote res ones too. I plan to put some on my 200 series soon. The the record with all the weight I had on the GU it rode beautifully. Empty (which it only was once) It was awful. I hope this is of some use. Cheers Steve

[@kevanharding9716]

Look into Superior engineering remote res 8 adjustable settings work really well especially in corrugations , awesome dampening reduces shock through vehicle greatly and are also rebuildable.....good value for money .

[@Alex.G]

Having looked at their pricing I am quite impressed!

[@craiglord1778]

Howzit Alex 👍 mate I have the Bilstein B6 shocks on my GU and I'm quite happy with them. Im also running a 2" lift on uprated coils for constant 250kg load which ill admit is a bit hard when it's not loaded but the setup is great when its loaded and on the tracks. Also the B6's are servicable which I like. I drive the same sort of tracks that you guys do with the occasional fun stuff here and there. I wouldn't blow the bank on something like remote res which you may not really need..

[@Alex.G]

Thanks for the input Craig :) yeah the airbag idea might help me a bit with the laden/unladen harshness if i'm lucky!

[@sshoh9222]

I have Fox MRR shocks and Pedders springs with a 2 inch lift....and yes you can get to 90-95% of places without any insane mods. A good tourer is the way to go.

[@peteranderson1779]

I have just updated my hilux suspension. 2 inch lift with Koni 82's King springs up front and ome rear leafs. Awesome combination. Koni and king springs are a very reliable combination. Good luck.

[@PhantasticAdventures]

Hey mate! Love the work so keep it up. Me personally I would do dobinsons. Reasonably priced and good quality. I been running Robinson for 3.5 year and have not had any issue. You just got.to be start with the investment. Also, like you said it is all depending on your current circumstances, so get what work for you. There will always be negative and positive review on products, and people can say a lot online. But, at the end of the day it is all up to personal preference

[@ferretsarg6940]

We have a 05 gu, we have peddlers the reason for that was a gvm upgrade and at 3 inch lift on 35's all engineered. 3 inch didn't need it ur comment 2 inch on 33's we got and did everything the others did with bigger lift n tyres why the bigger tyres cause I just wanted to why 3 inch because we were getting it engineered for the gvm. The gvm upgrade was done for safety and insurance as 95% of patrol owners don't think about it considering how much gear we carry. Why Pedders because at the time they were the only ones doing a gvm for 05 GU, also Pedders started all the mono tube or whatever it is and had it patent for years before released to the rest of the market to do. Happy yes a bit rigid but that is to be expected with a gvm upgrade been great of road, ow n two other things airbags from a panelbeater mate of mine said as you said cracked chassis no good and the reservoir set up yeh rightio it's just a dick factor unless u are driving comp or corrugation rd all the time and that's coming from the suspension guys so you decide.

[@rockynrolling6206]

I run Fox Remote res 2.0 shocks on my GU, they cost me around $2200 for the set, but they are completely rebuildable and can be completely tuned to your needs,on road it killed a lot of my body roll, and the corrugations are not even a consideration now, worth a look

[@Alex.G]

That's a name I forgot to mention! Fox shocks have been in the remote res game for ages too

[@rcc7036]

ive got the Fox 2.0s without the remote res. $950 for a set new. Alot more comfortable then my Koni 88 shocks i had in it before and way less body roll. far longer travel too. Id recommend them.

[@rockynrolling6206]

@Rcarter, the body roll really is the first thing you not, mine handles so well now its pretty sweet

[@_Crewsy_]

I've got Fox 2.0's without remote res. Granted it's on a Hilux but they're the best shocks I've ever had! I've also done a fair bit of corrugation work and there's been no fade or need for remote res.

[@carlomicheli8651]

G'Day Alex, I'd consider an heavy duty coil set up. With all the equipment on board and all the variables that the terrain provides ( corrugations,grass filled potholes etc. ) a HD suspension would suit you well. With a HD suspension you wouldn't need airbags ( 2K could be used for a mod elsewhere in the future ) airbags were designed for towing & cargo hauling not overlanding. They will become a liability in the bush. Also, when choosing your suspension, make sure your kit is readily available across the country, if a component fails you need to be able to get a replacement at a nearby shop. Have you looked into gas shocks, they're firm but aren't prone to leaks like oil filled are, and are cheaper as well, just a thought. I've got an 06 Jeep TJ-L with OME 2930 font coils,2996 holding up the rear with Rancho 5000X gas shocks all a round, my daily driver and bushmobile. Couldn't be happier with this setup, but that's my preference it's not not for everyone it's just that there are more options for you to consider. Make sure you keep it simple and robust!! Good luck with your endeavor!! Peace, Carlo Micheli Swanton,Vermont US.

[@stuartkcalvin]

I'm a new subscriber and bell ringer, and I admire the crossover from theatre to doing stuff. Keep the theatre going but keep producing off road stuff - it'll stick. I'm a Patreon, but there'll come a time when you have to separate both; but keeping a balance of theatre with sandy shit. I have no idea what I'm talking about, but it suits the time and purpose. Dobinson.

[@grantkerr2971]

Koni are a twin tube, the others you mentioned are the mono tube variant. If I were in your position, go the the koni 88, forget about the 82 series for what you do, OR have a look at Outback Armour.....very reasonable in $$, they have a new adjustable version, I’ve had the non adjustable type on my GQ and provide a comfy ride. Good luck with whatever you choose.

[@savmarjanac1627]

I have used pedders heavy duty springs and shocks. They are awsome

[@mprance]

Koni 88 are a very soft shock have a bit of research on old fourms, you may need a heavier spring to commiserate the soft shock, a you get a bit more body roll if you dont get heavier springs, If you can fully load your patrol and go to a weigh bridge and take the front and and rear axle weight. you will be surprised how heavy it is really.

[@Alex.G]

Yeah that was one of the prevailing comments I saw, a lot of people upgrading swaybars to compensate as well. But then I suppose you'd lose some flex. Not to mention an upgraded Whiteline swaybar isn't a cheap mod in itself. Stiffer springs would certainly seem more logical. I might just get the thing down to the local weighbridge next week hey, I assume I'd be able to find standard Patrol axle weights around the web somewhere to compare it to.

[@mprance]

atm Im running the 90's ive had to install a few bits like panrod's and lower control arms for clearances for just a 2 inch lift. I dont know how much thinner the 88's are. Fully loaded my front is 1500kgs, rear 2200ks, with that weight i have 300 kgs front and spring rate of 500 in the rear.

[@TobyMuirson]

Why not go Old Man Emu with Poly-air Bags in the back? get the comfort and load support, and with proven results. I know its a little more expensive, but in happy with my Ome.

[@Alex.G]

I do love the OME springs, and the BP51's but I found the Nitrochargers a bit firm on my last Patrol. Very tough shock though!

[@marcusknight3240]

Tough dog 9 stage adjustable all day every day, little clickers on the side and every somthing, great for the price and non of that remote res BS. Springs. I have a series 4 GU with kings springs. 2” lift. I have 100KG constant in the back and it rides mint. HD in the front with steel ball bar, winch, 3 antennas, td42 engine, and the car sits mint and rider awesome

[@Alex.G]

Good to hear from someone with the 100kg kings in them. Do they still sit alright when loaded with your camping gear? And do you find yourself playing with the adjustment on the shocks much?

[@bogged2theeyeballs695]

Koni 88 are a twin tube not a monotube shock, but they are rebuildable.

[@rosshalford4041]

I have the same issue in mine. Previous owner put in a 3" lift that feels only slightly softer than steel rods. Looking at going a 2" and something a bit softer for comfort, as I do long distance touring. Be interested to see how you go.

[@mattgollings2388]

please do backyard mechanics vid install

[@Alex.G]

I most certainly will mate 😁

[@mattgollings2388]

awsome

[@brandonward5355]

Yes please I'm gonna be buying a stock patrol, hopefully in a few weeks I need a good guide!

[@jacobdanjkov8946]

Get the remote dobinsons if not get the old man emu bp51 but if you cant spend that much the dobinsons are epic man and the remote resi is the way of the future

[@rockynrolling6206]

I'd look at the trouble a couple of guys on 4x4 earth are having with Dobinson MRR's, personally I'd stay away

[@Alex.G]

The BP51 sure would be niiiice :)

[@tannyshim3074]

I’m using koni absorbers, but the toughdog were built to archive long life. If there’s a choice I will go with toughdog .

[@mayk3lll]

There’s always a sacrifice.. you want flex where the body of the vehicle stays as level as possible and the actual suspension does the work, it’ll ride shit on road and vice versa.. the remote res are adjustable to possible to get the best of both worlds. I own the bilstein and love them.

[@zoezoe610]

Most of the fancy expensive shocks around are generally over kill for most people's 4x4 driving. I have single bore shocks, 2 inch medium rated coils and Airbag man bags in the rear for when loaded more than usual. Unless you are doing hard core here in WA just a normal medium setup is about right. Adjustable shocks most just set and forget so save your money. Most have all this super expensive gear and just drive gravel tracks like we have in the hill of Perth and never justifies the expense.

[@Alex.G]

Yeah I think I'd get lazy and never play with the adjustment on a set of shocks. I know so many of those people who buy top shelf shocks and rarely even get off road 😄

[@zoezoe610]

@@Alex.G Most just but them for show and tell. Really enjoying the videos too.

[@alistairfrench1375]

I've been running Koni Raid 90s and kings extra heavy duty front and rear in my GU wagon which were installed as part of an 2in lift engineered gvm upgrade in NSW to 3505 kg a few years ago (usually runs around 3450kg loaded for camping with 2 people) - also needed rear coil tower braces. Ride on road is great no body roll running sway bar disconnects front and rear, offroad is pretty good still has pretty reasonable flex, though heavy corrugations are a harsh even when the tires deflated due to the heavy springs and running steelies and muddies which combined quite heavy. If I didn't keep the vehicle loaded up (never gets below 3t due to the bars, mods, long range fuel tanks and drawers etc) I probably would have not have gone with the real heavy springs and looked at airbags instead but cant fault the shocks so far (though was exy).

[@Alex.G]

Yeah those shocks are $$$$$$ bit outta my price range! I looked at those extra heavy kings, they offer insane weight capacity!

[@TikTokTommy]

I got a ironman lift in the front only my Colorado i went the heavy spring with the foam cell pros and I'm getting the rear shocks done early next week but the rear will the the foam cell comfort but so far I'm very happy with the quality and service

[@rockbiterhd]

2" is good Dobinson

[@antoniogomes4541]

Great video go Koni Raid big shock and are the best for LC or Patrol. Koni Raid have lots of oil. Old man emu springs with the Koni.

[@markhoppus69]

I have a set of 88's on my GU and I love them. Don't let the price put you off, they're brilliant.

[@markhoppus69]

I should've added, I run heavy duty dobinsons coils and I don't find the ride too firm at all.

[@aussiedrifter]

Alex I strongly no insist that the Best Suspension Setup for your GU Patrol Will be the One you're going to fit LOL ;-) until then the Suspens-----ion is real seat of your pants stuff. Happy New Year Mate, Steve.

[@AustralianImage]

Having owned nothing but Patrols since 1980, I've learned what works and what doesn't. To that end, I'd recommend nothing but OME, which I've had in my GU Patrols since 2001. My current Patrol has done 200,000km and the original 2" lift springs are still perfect and I've only changed the shocks twice (every new Patrol has had the factory springs and shocks turfed from new). The previous OME 'Comfort' shocks were the best I've ever had, but they've been superseded with a new model that's a little firmer. Do not install the heavy duty setup unless you really have your Patrol loaded all the time. If your trips are like ours: australianimage.com.au/category/the-high-country/, then you can't go wrong with OME.

[@Alex.G]

That's some valuable input right there! Looks like you've certainly taken it over the rough stuff too. It seems that a lot of suspension mobs push their heavy duty stuff too much on people that aren't loaded all the time hey?

[@AustralianImage]

Even ARB tends to do that, but you have to absolutely insist on the lighter duty shocks, which makes all the difference. The 50mm springs are fine, but it's the shocks that make the Patrol either pleasant to be in or turns it into a bone jarring go-cart. It's all to do with the compression valving, the original Comfort shocks had quite soft compression valving so that bumps and pot holes were absorbed nicely, but they recovered quickly, and gave a very pleasant ride. The shocks would still last 100,000km without problems.

[@cyclemoto8744]

Although OME can be pricey they sell complete kits. Be warned buying individual components unless the "custom kit" is provide by an expert suspension mob (not some internet 4x4 warehouse or shop). I had a standard OME nitro suspension kit on my Prado 120 and it was very good, used for 80000km over 4 years without any issues prior to selling the car. I now have a LC 76 wagon and have installed another OME kit, BP51 in this instance with 600kg rear leafs, and the ride difference is night and day. When choosing the suspension for the LC76 I too considered Bilstein B6, Koni 82/88/92 & Dobinson MRR - as well as a Kings remote res kit. In my opinion the Bilstein were too low end & Dobinson seem to have too many issues not to mention that the Dobinson HQ sales staff were idiots (I called and requested a quote for MRR kit and was told none were in stock however I was happy to wait, so the guy still sends me a quote for their standard basic suspension). The Dobinson pre sales experience however was not match for Kings. I realise there are many satisfied Kings customer in Australia but that wasn't my experience. I literally couldn't buy Kings due the Australian distributor being so incompetent that i was unable to obtain a quote over a 1 month period which also involved a complaint to the head office in the USA which led to the Kings USA Vice President contacting me personally and apologising - this eventuated in Kings Australia contacting me to obtain my requirements yet I still never received a quote thus I will NEVER buy Kings shocks in Australia whilst the operations are in the hands of this incompetent QLD company (How can you trust a company to assist with after sales issues if they can't even sell you the product). After all this, the final decision was between Koni and OME. The Koni 82 were not up to my requirements so I ruled those out. Shopping around I found a set of new rear BP51 shocks for half price which led to me buying the rest of the OME BP51 kit from ARB for a negligible price difference when compared to Koni. Although I haven't personally experienced the Koni 88 or 92 I have only heard good things so if price is an issue I think they would be a great investment but if the price is close to BP51 then OME for sure! Last of all, do yourself a favour as mentioned earlier and buy a completed Kit from a reputable seller. Rohny Dahl's experience with his mongrel Fox kit should be a warning to anyone (If you don't know what I'm talking about check out his video)

[@AustralianImage]

I knew four Landcruiser or Patrol owners who installed King springs and within six months all had sagging springs. One owner was a distributor who hadn't noticed that his Patrol was siting all askew until pointed out. He complained to Kings and their response was that they'd send a box of springs and he could try out different ones until he found a set that evened out. I've never had that sort of issue with OME.

[@youeilx2]

i vouch for this. ive had OME in both my GU RD28 and my 80 series crusier and the comfort is unbelievable. ive also had EFS in my ZD30 and that was really good to.

[@jimbo4838]

Hi Alex I have a Y61 with Bilstein B6 and King Springs 100-250kg. A bit firm but I have yet to fit rear drawers. I went through the same dilemma last year and nearly went for the Koni 88s. If I had my time over I would go the Koni 88s.

[@eatinemo]

Sounds like a similar setup to mine I've been using raw4x4 2inch lifted springs for 4years have done the Simpson , Fraser Island multiple times and alot more have had not a single issue with them and my trucks heavy I do have air bag helpers which I would recommend.

[@Alex.G]

Any idea what shocks you have paired with the raw 4x4 springs? Or is it a full RAW kit?

[@eatinemo]

yeah its a full raw4x4 setup springs and shocks ive got over 100,000ks on them and they are still working great i drive a hour to work just about everyday and bush or beach on weekends im near coffs harbour so i have lots of tracks to play on, my truck has 80kg draws fully loaded a full fridge ,rooftop tent i run 10 to15psi in my bags for everyday and 20 to 30 when on a trip and i have had no issues with them and ive put it through some real nasty stuff we also have them on my daughters 4inch lifted patrol with comp springs they just work and are not costly

[@rooster8039]

I'm pretty sure raw suspension is 4x4 supercenter stuff...The boys on 4wd Action use it...Not sure what its like...

[@Alex.G]

Yeah being related to 4wd supacentre is enough to put me off! Plus...I've never seen a truly honest review of anything on 4wd action. Never even seen them pick a negative about a product, they must get paid a lot to say good stuff.

[@KroniklyStoned]

@@Alex.G Agreed. They talk about 4wdsupacentre stuff as if its superior. And we all know it's made to a price point. Quality has to suffer when corners are cut to make it cheap.

[@matt87888]

West coast suspension the 2” lift kit? Are the shocks you mentioned foam cell inside the iron man foam cell shock is great for longevity they say handles heating as well as remote res. Springs I can’t help as my car has none haha

[@Alex.G]

The bilsteins and koni's I mentioned aren't foam cell brownie. But still more resistant to heat damage than a twin tube that doesnt have foam cell. You don't have springs??

[@matt87888]

No. I’m torsion bar front and leafs rear. Of you choices I’m liking bilstein. Would it not be beneficial to pair same brand shocks to springs?

[@ryanjohnson6990]

What about superior remote res? I’ve got them on my gu and love em!! Reasonably priced around $375 a corner

[@Alex.G]

Yeah that's not too bad a price!

[@rodneylyne9612]

Just looking for an upgrade for my gu and this video came up. What did you end up getting and have you done a review

[@Alex.G]

I got the Koni 88s and they're still going strong all these years later! Never did a review on them, the only bad thing I have to say about them is that adjusting them is quite a task

[@Kenjineering]

I have no input but that's a cracking flannel.

[@Alex.G]

Mate, flattering input is some of the most valuable! 😄 2 buck special at the op shop that one!

[@rhyscarter2282]

Hey cobb. I have a few mates with alot of differant brands . I myself have ridepro and not happy at all with it. From my experience with the patrols bilstein has been the best out of all the brands u have talked about. Keep up the good work guys. When are u coming down to the vic high county?

[@Alex.G]

Good onya rhys thanks for the input 🙂 yeah I've heard the brand name ridepro, sounds like one I should steer clear of! Hmm....high country would be awesome to do! What time of year do you reckon is best?

[@rhyscarter2282]

The high country is a very good place. Me and my mates love it and cant get enough of it. We have been in march and november both been good times. Mind u in summer times it can be very hot.

[@negueba235689]

Its so nice how you talk about extra kg . If I talk to the road approval system in my country. I am not allowed to have suspension who handle more Kg! = the car have a document , on this it say max kg in total and cargo ++. this is the car original. So original parts should do the work. Spring with better Kg rate is not allowed. As im not allowed to ad more Kg to the car then what the original car document say. 2 lift is ok if its TUV. but 2 lift with stronger springs... thats not ok. My Mitusbishi Pajero gen 2 Can have a max load of 700kg... thats all cargo + peoples. So bull bar , roof rack . cargo . driver . passanger + + all max 700kg. my Nissan Y61 2001 .. Can have max load of 550kg. add a winch and a bull car .. i have 475kg left. add 3 people . I have 200kg left .. add roof rack and tent. I have 100kg cargo left.. you get the picture..

[@Alex.G]

That is a pretty frustrating rule! I can kinda see where they are coming from, but I don't believe the stock rated suspension is designed to carry the full legal weight of a vehicle. If it did, you'd have a hell of a harsh ride! I suppose every country has their own annoying little rules like that which have to be worked with.

[@negueba235689]

@@Alex.G . I put my car full up many times... no problem.. its a Pajero. and its dry kg = 2078kg.... and max kg is 2790kg. no problem.. and it can tow 3300kg.. also ok... but go slow lol

[@dodgyhodgie734]

Have you considered outback armor suspension, great reviews and reasonably priced and they have a few options.

[@Alex.G]

I only just got told this exists yesterday as a result of this video. So I'm certainly going to look into them 🙂

[@rooster8039]

First...That's rad...

[@Alex.G]

Fist bump! 👊😁

[@daveclout7092]

Have a look @ Icom setups

[@ben7020]

The Bilstein are gas charged, koni aren't gas charged FYI

[@HiMATE626]

What about Rancho RS9000XL shocks, they have a tri-tube construction and are adjustable?

[@1FiftyOverland]

I second Rancho Rs9000xl shock. Have them on my f150. No need to get shocks with resi's. Unless your going to be doing Baja.

[@Alex.G]

@@1FiftyOverland that's what I am inclined to believe with the remote res thing too

[@Alex.G]

Tri tube hey? I'll have to look them up and have a read on how they work!

[@1FiftyOverland]

@@Alex.G kzbin.info/www/bejne/d5CQoqGihLGZedk

[@bennykurianyahoo]

I put 2" dobinson spring and coil and still getting bumpy ride on 35psi for highway/ local driving. Tyre - Toyo 295/70/17. Any suggestions to get more smooth driving? Thanks

[@benno8588]

Old man emu bp51 all the way or anything koni

[@TheDailyGQ]

Koni!!! I have mine on and a review on my channel aswell:)

[@Dorko85]

Thought of TJM suspension with Polyair bags?

[@Alex.G]

I haven't come across much on the TJM gear, is that what you're using?

[@Dorko85]

Yep very happy with them (on a Defender) wish I did it years ago

[@zarbi6768]

Hey there, i own a gu 4.2 diesel and run old man emu 2 inch coils and shocks, , i run heavier coils at rear to allow for my long range tank and drawer set up. just come back from a trip to mt dare/dalhouse springs, the car handled the corrugations really well , the only thing i will add is some rear tower braces, patrolapart.com.au/product/nissan-patrol-gq-gu-boss-bolt-in-diy-coil-tower-brace-kit/nissan-patrol-gq-gu-boss-bolt-in-diy-coil-tower-brace-kit, good luck with your set up cheers Greg

[@Alex.G]

Coil tower braces is a beaut idea greg. Especially as I imagine your setup is getting up there in weight.

[@zarbi6768]

i was recommended to do it by the mechanic at mt dare he owns a patrol and he said the main thing that goes wrong with the patrols up here is people over load there vehicles and they cant handle it over the corrugations and rough tracks and the tower braces or chassis crack @@Alex.G

[@rockynrolling6206]

Also as far as dobinson and Bilstein shocks go, if you haven't already may be worth a read of this, seams to be some mixed reviews on both 4x4earth.com/forum/index.php?threads/dobinsons-mrr-long-term-review.39662/

[@mitchelllee8325]

If I was you I would run a 3" shock remote res Amanda, the new superior or the mrr shocks same same in price a mid heavy spring by Dobinson not a big fan or air bags only sold them to idiots that thought they are any good and check what ply your tyre side wall is because not matter what you do to the suspension if they are 8ply up then good luck p.s use to sell a heap of this stuff

[@savmarjanac1627]

Stay away from the dobinsons, i work in the industry snd we are constantly throwing them in the bin. Quality is nowhere near as good as they used to be. Talk to a pro, they are more than happy to give you the right info for free to help you make the right decision. And for the weights you are talking about, it may pay to get s gvm upgrade. It's legal and done properly by a pro and registered with the department of transportation. That way you know that you won't have any issues. I should know as mentioned I work for a very reputable company that does this on a regular basis. And and No Bull.

[@Alex.G]

Interesting. Is that the dobinsons shocks or the springs you are noticing that with? Or is it both? Any idea what that kit increases the GVM by?

[@bashka5743]

EFS

[@mattryan354]

I went EfS, and when people get in the patrol they can’t believe how good the suspension is. I’ve got EfS rated to 4t! Can’t go wrong.

[@nissanpatrol92]

OLD MAN EMU

[@richardkd3048]

Superior engineering gear! Also its 2" including tires so what's the point. Insurance isn't a problem if you are open with them.

[@G-TEK]

Hi Just wondering if anybody has had any experience good/bad with cheap (sub 1k) 2" suspension kits (front & rear) for a 4.2D GU(98) patrol?

[@hardliquor4x493]

Fuck this is getting to tech i just run efs springs and shocks and they get the job done. Dont get to wrapped up in the suspension thingy.

[@jamiesnell3523]

maybe research trak ryder pedders perfect lift and fox

[@heatherwenthiking]

Burn the patrol and buy a Toyota! Just kidding. Don’t go remote res. You’ve got the hassle of mounting the remote res somewhere up in your wheel well and it’s just another external part to fail. And keep hearing stories of the tube breaking/splitting between the res & shock. On the other hand Dobinsons are very good with their customer service and replacement of faulty parts, not just with their suspension but other things they sell too like their bullbars. Sell their gear at work so get a lot of feedback & they’ve even replaced some stuff that’s been out of warranty when it’s failed. They’re really good to deal with as a company. Personally I run bilsteins in the lux up front and tough dogs in the rear but I will be replacing the rears with something else, most likely bilsteins once the tough dog are screwed. We sell Ridepro at work but haven’t had any feedback on them. Mum & dad run OME in their cruiser and it is beautiful to drive. I’ve never heard of anyone complain about their OME sus. The Kings and Fox have definitely made a name for themselves too but pricey!

[@trevorward1690]

Don't do raw rubbish shocks leak in no time .