ZUKIWORLD Online | Suzuki 4x4 Editorial and Forum
ZUKIWORLD Discussion Forum => Suzuki 4x4 Forum => Topic started by: chrisvitarasport94 on September 22, 2004, 09:10:00 AM
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Put my vitara on a ramp yesterday; didn't do any measurements but looked at flex and where the rear 31" tyres would bind. I have rubber arch spats, and to prevent binding at the top of the arch I'm thinking of bigger bump stops - any experience of this?
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Bump stops are a good idea. I need to install a set on my Sammy one of these days. Right now I can smack the front springs off my track bar, and that ain't good. There are some good adjustable bump stops available so you can tune them to your truck. If I remember correctly, I saw them over at http://www.spidertrax.com
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;DI agree. I have had several suspension configurations without bumpstops and done quite abit of damage under extreme flex and air borne landings. I now run the 'stops and it has saved my a$$ several times whilst providing a stop that is not metal on metal. It is fairly simple to do as well. :D
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air bumps stops ;D
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Correction in the placement of bump stops is one of the biggest neglects when lifting the suspension. You lift a vehicle for better ground clearance as well as for fitting larger diameter tires. The shocks are usually chosen for the longer 'extension' of the suspension and if so choosen, designed to function with the lift for better travel and handling. The bump stops have a function. They are designed to limit the amount of travel the suspension has upward.
Best way to determine if you need to adjust the bump stop is to remove the 'spring'* which supports the vehicle's weight. Cycle the suspension without the 'spring', keeping everything else intact. For the front tire, you'll need to turn the tire like you would do for steering it. If the axle is non-independant, you'll need to drop one side at max droop and other full compression. This provides the best angulation of the vehicle.
Do note: Even though you are performing the above, the chassis is not in a situation where it will react with the live conditions.
*'Spring' - coil is rather simple as all it does is support the vehicle. - leafs are a little more difficult as they also act as a suspension link. Disassemble the leafs to leave only the main locating leafs. Note the thickness of the removed leafs for height determination.