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ZUKIWORLD Model Specific Suzuki Forum => Suzuki Samurai (All SJ Platform) 1981-1998 => Topic started by: Bfree on March 05, 2012, 04:19:26 PM

Title: Better Ride outta the Zuk
Post by: Bfree on March 05, 2012, 04:19:26 PM: The zuk rides like a tank, I think I can run over a knats butt and fill it. The zuk has a 3" shackle lift and a homemade 3" body lift, and my best guess some aftermarket leafs that are stiff as a board. The shocks appear to be moving, & it will flex while moving down the trail but its rough. Any suggestions would be greatly appreaciated, especially about adding springs to this setup.

BTW, Im really not interested in doing a SPOA lift b/c of the added height but if this is my only choice id consider it. Thanks in advance, Billy
Title: Re: Better Ride outta the Zuk
Post by: tuxblacray on March 05, 2012, 04:30:20 PM: What size tire are you running?
Title: Re: Better Ride outta the Zuk
Post by: Bfree on March 07, 2012, 05:19:58 AM: I have 33x12.5 on all 4 corners.
Title: Re: Better Ride outta the Zuk
Post by: Boxcar on March 07, 2012, 07:22:48 AM: Are you sure you have 3" of shackle lift?
Or are they 3" over shackles? = 1.5" lift...
I cant imagine how a 3" body lift and 3" shackle lift would ride. Never been in one set up that way.
I will say that a SPOA , with flat springs . Done correctly, rides pretty well on or off road.
I don't have time right now to go into the set up in more detail . Go-ta go to work...Boxcar...
Title: Re: Better Ride outta the Zuk
Post by: Bfree on March 07, 2012, 07:13:22 PM: Man, I aint sure about anything on the lil Zuk but what I do know is it runs and the 33s dont rub anywhere. I'll have to get a tape measure to it, but I'm pretty sure they are about 3" long shakles and then the body lift w/an aftermarket leaf and ride is like a buck board.
Title: Re: Better Ride outta the Zuk
Post by: Drone637 on March 19, 2012, 10:37:59 AM: Swapping out for a SPOA and YJ springs is a good way to smooth out the ride. Or do a RUF (rear springs up front) and CJ (front Jeep CJ) rear spring conversion. Some softer shocks may be enough to make it liveable.
Title: Re: Better Ride outta the Zuk
Post by: zukmonster on March 19, 2012, 03:34:34 PM: Quote from: Bfree on March 07, 2012, 05:19:58 AM
I have 33x12.5 on all 4 corners.

what brand/kind tires?? what tire pressure you running?? lowering the pressure can make a big difference IMO. im running 35" TSLs and have 10 pounds for street. i droped to that from 22 pounds.....night and day difference.

also ive never rode one with CJ/RUF, but i got YJs now and have yet to run them either, (waiting for the MY-SIDE to show up).
but the stock springs i removed (SPOA) rode rough. i swear i was about to slip some dics in my back driving over a cotton ball!!
Title: Re: Better Ride outta the Zuk
Post by: Bfree on March 19, 2012, 06:41:43 PM: Thanks for the info. I'll look into these.
Title: Re: Better Ride outta the Zuk
Post by: tuxblacray on March 20, 2012, 02:36:26 PM: Sorry for not replying sooner.... 1st the 3" body doesn't effect the actual ride. It does raise the COG but doesn't move the stability triangle.

Your 3" shackles equate to 1.5" of lift... and if the were the OEM springs your ride quality wouldn't be any more or less that any stock Samurai.

If there have been additional springs added to your spring pack these are your culprits that provide you with some additional lift and the harsh ride.

The guys above have provided you with some pretty sound advice and suggestions. I have a Ruf set up and run 34's and will offer some suspension changes if you are interested. Since there has been some time passed since your orignal post I will refrain unless asked.

Tux...
Title: Re: Better Ride outta the Zuk
Post by: Bfree on March 21, 2012, 04:47:23 PM: Thx for all the info.

Would adding Coils to the Zuk make it a better ride? If so how would I do that?
Title: Re: Better Ride outta the Zuk
Post by: zukmonster on March 21, 2012, 07:15:25 PM: yes..... buy a kit, i know RRO has one. not sure who else though..... and follow instructions :P
Title: Re: Better Ride outta the Zuk
Post by: tuxblacray on March 21, 2012, 07:32:15 PM: I have never done a link system... but welding is a must so hopefully you have some fabrication skills... ;)
Title: Re: Better Ride outta the Zuk
Post by: Drone637 on March 21, 2012, 11:58:32 PM: It is not that hard to build your own if you have access to a shop and fab skills. And it does make a big difference. :)