?Hard / Normal Switch?

[HiluxSurfBMX]

Hey,
My truck has a factory appearing switch on the dash that shows a picture of a of a Shock and it says Hard and Normal.
My question is, when should I use Hard and how does it make the shocks stiffer?
Thanks

 

[SoCalMike]

Hard switch

Easy!
Use the HARD switch in the evening when your out with a good looking date!

 

[Scofco]

You need a switch to get hard?

 

[HiluxSurfBMX]

A real bunch of comedians you guys are.

 

[Scofco]

Well, from what I gather, the truck should have an AUTO setting for the suspension. With that there are sensors that monitor how the vehicle is behaving, and adjust the shocks accordingly.

You'd want to use the HARD setting if you intend on driving the truck like a sports car. It will stiffer the shocks using hydraulic pressure, allowing you to corner with less body roll, and restricting body roll during fast acceleration and braking.

SOFT for the opposite, if you are going for an easy drive through town, and want comfort.

 

[Thai]

Hey,
My truck has a factory appearing switch on the dash that shows a picture of a of a Shock and it says Hard and Normal.
My question is, when should I use Hard and how does it make the shocks stiffer?
Thanks

Well, what kind of truck/4runner do you have?? I don't think 4runners ever came with adjustable shocks...only Lexus SUVs have them. Of course, you could have aftermarket shocks. I am not sure if the foreign market 4runners/Hilux have them...apparently, you have them.

If you do have adjustable shocks, then HARD = SPORTY. NORMAL = COMFORT. So, you can adjust according to your need. In off-roading, you have to try the two settings. Some will use the HARD setting to help prevent bottoming out. Others will use the NORMAL to help smooth out the bumps.

 

[HiluxSurfBMX]

Yea, it's a Hilux Surf SSR V6 (hence my name) so it has all of the toys and I don't notice a difference either way. I figured that the hard would be better for the road while the soft would smooth out the bumps off-road. The shocks may not be stock but living where I do I doubt that the prevous owner would have put in extra money for an upgrade. Don't get me wrong it's in good shape and it appears to be well maintained but I doubt upgraded.
But I still wonder how this works.

 

[prlundberg]

It's normally a pretty subtle difference, at least with adjustable shock vehicles I've driven.

If you can't feel any difference, the shocks may be worn out.

 

[HiluxSurfBMX]

They don't feel worn out. I guess they may be.


I'd still like to know how it works.

 

[toybox]

It probably has something to do with the valving in the shock. Rancho I believe has an adjustable shock and I believe they work in that way. The adjustment is made electronically by the switch.