helloguys

I just bought a 2007 LS460 L with air suspension (RWD). Mechanic said the two at the front needs to be replaced. I was thinking of converting to spring shocks for cost and durability.

It looks like the expensive one (assuming the 'best') is StrutMaster for $1238 (including shipping). "2007-2012 LEXUS LS 460 RWD 4-WHEEL CONVERSION KIT WITH SUSPENSION FAULT CODE DISARM MODULE (TC34FM)". Cheap ones like Suncore or Unity is around $300-$400.

Questions:
1) If the spring struts fit the base model, shouldn't it fit the L model? Suncore said their product works for the LS460 base model but not the L model because L model is heavier. But StrutMasters said their product fits both models.
2) StrutMasters seems to be the one who comes with the alarm disable module (to disable to air strut sensor alarm). But I heard that you could also use the sensor/motor from the old (air) struts to fool the computer. Is that true?
3) What would be a reasonable labor cost to replace 4 struts (from air to spring)? From YouTube, it looks like a lot of work. Need to take off the back seats, etc. Considering the labor cost, which model of struts would you recommend?
4) I saw that some stores sell springs only. How does that work? Dos it mean you could just replace the spring instead of the whole strut assembly (in a spring to spring scenario)? I don't think many car shop are willing to do that.

Last but not the least,
5) At this moment, the mechanic said only the two front struts need to be replaced. So it's kind of waste to replace the two back struts as well. What do you think? I also heard that that some stores have "recycle" program that if you ship them the old (air) struts, they'll (partial) refund your purchase on the conversion kit. Do you know which store has such a program?

Sorry for newbie questions. Thank you very much for your help!

swfla

iTrader: (1)

If you have a trusted mechanic who will do the work, ask him to recommend the best arrangement. If he supplies the struts and does the work, it should all be warrantied. Pay me now or pay me later applies to folks that supply their own parts. Not saying you're wrong. You don't mention your miles but I'd guess the rears are close to end of life and may be wise to replace them all in one visit.

Anfanger

As many times before, I recommend used struts from low mileage vehicles. It will cost you around ~$500 for all four.

From what I read, SWB and LWB use same struts. I will double check.

There is no need for any disable modules. Just disconnect the air suspension controller.

Tnxx

Hi, would you elaborate on where the suspension controller is located? And just unplug it, correct?

Boykie

Passenger legs area

trogdor113

Exploded view:


The suspension module is bolted to the parking sensor/automatic parking module. You should be able to leave the parking module in place and sneak the suspension module out, but you'll probably have to temporarily unplug it. There's a whole stack of control modules behind the glove box, but luckily they have different size/shape connectors so you shouldn't be able to mess it up.

Anfanger

You will have to disconnect AFS module as well, if your car is equipped with it. Otherwise, you will get an AFS error code. There is no need to remove any modules, just disconnect wire harnesses.

Tnxx

I am just now getting ready to switch out the suspension, as soon as the weather gets a little warmer. I am curious as to how the AFS affects the air suspension.
ALso, do I need to do anything with the compressor at all?