A place for more technical discussions. Please make sure you post in the correct section on the site, this way it keeps the site tidy AND ensures you get a more relevant answer.
New to the forum/ proud owner of a Suzuki Jimny here. I use it primarily for camping/ basic overlanding. No rough 4x4 trails.
I've got drawers and batteries installed in the back (probably about 70kg total) and am adding a fridge soon. The stock suspension is close to its limit and I can feel the difference in handling.
I'm debating adding in airbags to assist the rear springs with the weight or an upgraded suspension (OME, EFS, or Tough Dog) for three times the price. Should I get the airbags now or save up and upgrade the suspension later?
Never seen one with airbags before. I guess the airbag route would make the suspension more adjustable depending
on the load you are carrying. Not sure though as never seen it done. I will follow this with interest.
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like those? if so they work well for the heavier load and can be let down to nothing for when your empty.
if you dont want to upgrade the suspension then its worth the time/money to install*, if you think about getting new suspension then i would recommend getting it to suit the weight that you will carry at %80 full that way its not going to be bone jaringly hard when empty. But if its going to be a full time overland camper then match the suspension to the vehicle when full of your stuff and fuel
iv not got a jimny atm so dont take my work as truth but thats basically what i did for a discovery "overland/camper" build for a good friend and it has worked for the past 3 years
* remember though the helper bags are pressurized and if they get pinched or something sharp gets them then you will be back at square one with sagging suspension.
There is a big difference in cost, performance and complexity between the 'helper' airbags that fit within the existing springs, and the firestone units which would completely replace your springs.
If all you want is stiffer springs then stick with coils. Putting front springs on the back of mine has helped a lot when carrying loads and towing. They are the same spring rate, just longer so the back sit slightly higher when not loaded but the ride hasn't sufffered at all.
