saleenssc

98 LS400
stock 16" wheels
oem size tires
165k miles

Ride height measured from ground to fender at center of wheel:

Front (Driver & Pass) 28"
pass Rear 28"
drivers rear 27"

what could be causing the 1" diff in ride height? Struts, Springs ???

I believe all struts and springs are original. Never changed. Trunk is empty aside from full size spare.

thanks

RA40

iTrader: (6)

That's about right give-take 1/2". These all pretty much have varying heights at each corner. How much gas is in the car? The battery also often causes the driver front to be 1/4-3/8" lower.

YODAONE

Anyone have Lexus ride height specs and measurement points for non air suspension 1998 LS400?

saleenssc

Ride height does not change at that corner regardless of gas in tank. Ive measured it at nearly empty and 100% full. it always stays at 27". is it safe to say that i have an issue with my spring at that corner. also it might be worth mentioning that i have no unusual tire wear at that corner. If not the spring could it be something else causing the 1" gap

thanks for your response

RA40

iTrader: (6)

Interesting situation. Would need to inspect and see what the condition of the suspension is.

YODAONE

Lexus parts department informs me Rear springs on LS400 are common call out. In fact on most 20 year old cars will rear springs sag.

If ordering replacement springs, stay with OEM. DO NOT use aftermarket. Be sure Lexus parts counter person has your VIN # to insure correct part.

While at it, a

lso replace the upper coil spring rubber insulators. Item # 48257B on Lexus parts diagram

saleenssc

aside from OEM springs, is there an alternative? i have not priced oem springs and struts yet. but i imagine they are not gonna be cheap. Just doing a quick search i found these. but they are not OEM. anyone ever use these or another aftermarket brand?

http://www.ebay.com/itm/90-00-Lexus-...BUf3K5&vxp=mtr

YODAONE

If you want OEM quality ride then stay with Lexus parts. The OEM struts are more expensive than aftermarket, but if you go with aftermarket anything, then endure the ride. If you can wait, then Amamaya (sp?) shipping authentic Lexus (Toyota) parts from Japan and U.A.E. is significant cost savings. Springs have probably settled. The rubber spring isolators are probably hard, dry-rotted and have conmpression set. Start there. U.S. OEM pricing is reasonable on these items because it is a common problem on a 20 year old LS400. You don't mention if you are performing work yourself...

saleenssc

just got off the phone with my local lexus dealer. Quote for all 4 corners to replace with OEM components is $2608 I dont think so. IM just going to have to deal with the ride of aftermarket struts and springs.

quote included strut mount, 2 rubber insulators, springs & struts.

valex

Four OEM shocks are around $900 shipped from partcom, I would do that. Get rubber insulators too. Springs are likely OK.
The difference between ride quality of OEM and aftermarket could be huge. Stiffer, choppier...

YODAONE

Let me ask you something though.... Why are you contacting Lexus for the labor??

Lexus will not install non OEM parts.

Acquire Lexus parts and shop an Independent shop...just be sure they put in writing they will torque all fasteners to factory spec..and sign it.

Check this site.
LEXUS PARTS SOURCING
https://www.amayama.com/en/