I keep reading about the rumor that the AWD GS's sit about 1/2" higher than the RWD GS's. Dow we have any proof? Is there a different part number for the stock springs? Can anyone shed some light on this? I assume if I remove the AWD springs and replace them with aftermarket it would sit like a RWD GS. on the identical aftermarket spring.

 

I'm in the same boat as you, the front of the car sits high, seems higher then RWD cars. i've never measure it, but its very clear when looking at the two.

 

Yes, I would like to identify the root cause. I know it "looks" higher, so I'd like to pinpoint what is causing that. This will help me in deciding what lowering springs to buy for the car.

Im simply concerned that Tanabe DF may not be as low on a AWD suspension as they are on RWD suspension.

If the root cause is the actual stock spring used on AWD cars, then the point is moot and doesnt really matter if you are removing that factor in the upgrade.

If the root cause is the "?" shaped front suspension assembly then I have to look further into the lowering spring selection.

 

it is very simple to find out by just looking at the specs between the two. yes AWD is higher

AWD
Height (in / mm) 56.5 / 1,435

RWD
Height (in / mm) 56.1 / 1,425

 

Also the ground clearance is 5.5" for the AWD and 5.1" for the RWD.

 

I've already looked into this. Suspension is listed as two different part numbers for the RWD and AWD. Suspension is designed higher for clearance. Same goes for the IS250 AWD. I could post the PDF slides from the Lexus TIS site that shows the shocks look different.

 

So those of you with AWD GS's...

How are you lowering yours? I would like to lower mine so that the god forsaken wheel gap isn't as noticeable. I dont want to mess up the smoothness of the ride though. Any suggestions?

 

It's not a rumor, it's a given. It's been the same way with the 2IS AWD as well.

 

OK I will assume the stock AWD spring used is making the difference.

No worries as I'm buying the tanabe DF's anyways. Id just rather them NOT be tucked when Im done. I am looking for a 1 fingergap fender to wheel clearance if that isnt too much to ask for.

Makes me wish I bought the BMW 545ix

 

I love the wheel gap! - We used to jack up our cars in the 1960's - This lowered crap really looks like crap to me! -

I cannot think of anything to cheapen the look of a GS350 than to drop the car so it looks like a pimp is driving it and a pimp with very little class as well!

 

If you drove in the snow, that extra half inch of clearance is nice to have.

 

you bought an all wheel drive. Its set up for all wheel drive conditions. I think the df210's will get you where you want to be in terms of ride height. It should work out

 

So far the two spring solutions suggested by other AWD owners who have made the drop are the Tanabae "NF210" springs or Tein "H Tech" springs. A few have suggested the DF210 (more agressive drop) also.

I have OEM 18" wheels (5 spoke) with the low profile runflat Dunlop, I too don't want the car bottomed-out. A nice 1" fender gap (close to factory stance of RWD model) or 5 Series BMW is the look I want.

Which set of springs are best suited for the wheel/tires I have for the look I want?

I believe I saw someone on another thread say the DF210 comes with a sleeve (something) that works to eliminate noise (squeaking) etc... I assume the othe options do not include it or offer it in the kit. I experienced squeaking noise with the Eibach Pro-Kit on a CL I had. It was very annoying. I do not want noise or vibration or alignment issues this go-round.

I welcome your opinions & suggestions

 

I know bumping an old post! But, I believe the AWD sit higher is because the lower ball joint plate is a lot thicker then a 2wd. I wonder if it is possible to mount 2wd lower ball joints, but then you're probably better off purchasing RCA's