semar

I just purchased a 2001 LS430 Ultra, 116k miles, one owner, dealer serviced from day one to present. The owner had the vehicle vacuumed and windowcleaned for $60 each time since 2001 (full service record proof)
The car was advertised as Premium package, when I got there it was an ultra. The car is in immaculate condition.
I drove the car home 800 miles and it rode like the magic carpet. Having driven a BMW 735i for the last 12 years the new car felt too soft. I would prefer a firmer setting. Talking about setting: I was under the impression the ultra has three settings high, normal and low. Now if found out it has only normal and high. Too big a gap at the wheels.
I will consider selling the whole airsuspension. If anybody is interested please contact me.
Presently totally immersed in the manual.
will show the car when we are allowed to wash and clean cars. At the moment we are under Level 4 waterrestrictions

Lavrishevo

iTrader: (1)

Did you try sport mode to firm up the suspension. It's a notable difference when I put mine in sport mode.

High mode is not meant for highway use. I believe 40 or 50 mph and under. The car does lower itself about 1/2 an inch over 60 mph. I love my air suspension. Extremely comfortable.

Another upgrade is to replace the front sway bar bushing and install the sports rear bar and sport bushes.

semar

thanks for the update info
EVERYTHING is new to me. Jumping from 88 to 2001
Yes, I moved the ride height to normal and set the sport setting, its just unusual. Some curves became scary, especially with big 36 wheelers beside you. I will add the beefier rear sway bar, still looking for poly bushings for it.
Dont like the chrome wheels. Black car and the chrome - its too much in the face. Plus it s not the right wheel for the PNW. Too much rain; rust could become a problem if you are not looking after them constantly.

will probably have a lot more questions

Lavrishevo

iTrader: (1)

An 18 inch wheel will will firm up the ride too. Your tire life will go down as well. It's not a sports car and will never handle like one. Not designed like this. Comparing it to your bmw is pretty unrealistic.

Did you visually check the air shocks for any signs of leakage? Also, can you bounce any corners of the vehicle with your body weight? You should not be able to.

jayclapp

The manual states that the high mode is "suitable for driving on rough roads which are unsurfaced or continually bumpy" and is for "low speed driving". It is no wonder that you found the car unsuitable for highway driving!

semar

appreciate your comment, like I said , I will have many questions
No leaks on the airshocks or bounce
It was only the difference in driving. The bimmer feels more planted and I wanted to know what can be done to improve on it. So far I will consider the sport rear stabilizer and if I can find them - the poly bushings.
Pretty well decided to keep the chrome wheels. The PO included nearly new wintertires but no rims. So I will keep the chromes and put the winter tires on them and buy some aftermarket wheels (dont like the removal of tires every year) TB was done, 100% dealer service on everything. I think I am good for a long time. Has anybody done some improvement with the headlights (LED?) the manufacture lights suck

semar

@5
I did not drive the car on high ever