GX - 1st Gen (2004-2009) Discussion topics related to the 2003 -2009 GX470 models

Towing, Suspension, Misc..

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Old 02-15-11, 10:34 AM
  #16  
Lexus 4 ME
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I would replace just sensors.
Old 02-15-11, 11:06 AM
  #17  
ebradford
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Originally Posted by rainmn
"Quality" of the OEM system? Sorry, but I find that almost laughable. Have you seen the length of my "Intermittent Poor Ride" thread?

The rear suspension of the GX is, IMO, over engineered junk. The ride height sensors are prone to failure (both of mine have been replaced), and even then, nobody seems to understand why the trucks still seem to have random ride quality issues.

If and when I need to replace the rear shocks or the height sensors (again), I will be going to standard springs & shocks.

As for the system working very well for towing....that's exactly when mine last broke....while hooking up my boat.
I'll be interested to see the steps (and cost) of a spring conversion. Please post if you head in that direction.
Old 02-15-11, 12:45 PM
  #18  
Koz
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Originally Posted by rainmn
"Quality" of the OEM system? Sorry, but I find that almost laughable. Have you seen the length of my "Intermittent Poor Ride" thread?

The rear suspension of the GX is, IMO, over engineered junk. The ride height sensors are prone to failure (both of mine have been replaced), and even then, nobody seems to understand why the trucks still seem to have random ride quality issues.

If and when I need to replace the rear shocks or the height sensors (again), I will be going to standard springs & shocks.

As for the system working very well for towing....that's exactly when mine last broke....while hooking up my boat.
I had the rear air for six years and not one problem and I towed every summer. Having the ability to adjust the approach and departure angle on the trailer with the push of a button and have the vehicle and trailer at perfect level (with cargo) is priceless. This system is worth its weight in gold (my personal opinion).

Koz
Old 02-15-11, 05:41 PM
  #19  
e30dude
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Originally Posted by ebradford
I'll be interested to see the steps (and cost) of a spring conversion. Please post if you head in that direction.
Will do..These may be useful as well: http://www.toyota120.com/forum/showthread.php?t=14731
http://www.toyota120.com/forum/showthread.php?t=17207
http://www.toyota120.com/forum/showthread.php?t=4266
With respect to the sensors, I understand what the others are saying. However, even when they were working, it would sometimes clunk and if I were going over a bump, it felt like it would hit the bump stops very easily. Once I decide what to do, I will be sure to post an update. Thanks for the responses.
Old 02-15-11, 09:34 PM
  #20  
BLUEGXLVCR
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I don't know if I'm doing the right thing or not but once a week I engauge the center diff, shift into 4Lo, the whole nine just to keep it all lubricated. Well on that note...

When I go out for In-N-Out and I'm in that wonderfully long line, I raise and lower the truck a few times. I subscribe to the use it or loose it ideal so I figure giving it all a work out keeps things lubricated. It's nice to hook up the boat and see things auto level. Good stuff!!!
Old 02-15-11, 10:29 PM
  #21  
Booyah
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My 08 tows my 2- 4Wheelers every single weekend, whether its a 1.5 hour to 4 hour haul with Zero issues so far to date. The auto level is so nice when I hook up, the rear raises up to proper height--headlights level, good to go! I love it
Old 02-16-11, 06:01 AM
  #22  
cssnms
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Originally Posted by Booyah
My 08 tows my 2- 4Wheelers every single weekend, whether its a 1.5 hour to 4 hour haul with Zero issues so far to date. The auto level is so nice when I hook up, the rear raises up to proper height--headlights level, good to go! I love it
Agreed


I would never change out the air suspension for a standard spring/shock and anyone who tows heavy loads you would understand why. The leveling suspension helps to keep the vehicle's weight more evenly distributed i.e. more weight over the front wheels. This improves handling and safety while towing.
Old 03-10-15, 12:00 PM
  #23  
lightner27
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Default 2003 GX470 transmission cooler

Do you know if the 03' has a transmission cooler it came with the towing package. I have a 4200lbs camper and it did a great job towing it back from VA to PA. But I'm worried that I'm pushing the limits as I only got 9.7MPG on the tank. I'm worried that I'm going to kill the transmission if I do this often.
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