Height Control Suspension Experience?

[mtnrunner]

Does anyone have any comments on the usage of the height control suspension with X-reas LTD models? How is it controlled, how low/high does it go, how does it benefit with loads on the HWY, etc? Do you like it?

(and yea, I did do a search like a good forum boy but found nada...)

 

[Thai]

You mean the AUTOLEVELING feature on the rear axle??

 

[Thai]

From Toyota:

A rear air suspension with X-REAS Sport Enhancement Suspension is available on Limited models with a V8 engine for improved ride and performance when towing or hauling heavy loads. The air suspension uses linear height sensors to automatically adjust the ride height in accordance with the vehicle load.


My commentary:
The system will only raise if you have a heavy load...the degree to which it is raised is proportional to the load...thus, maintaining the same ride height as before the load (it keeps the 4runner level).

This is needed especially when towing. Because your 4runner is level, braking force is now evenly distributed. If your 4runner did not have this feature, the rear end will sag down, while the front will lift up. During braking, most of the braking power will be at the rear, not the front (due to sagging). With this autoleveling system, the braking will be distributed evenly (front will have more braking power). Of course, you will also have more steering control as your front wheels are more "grounded."

Lastly, the autoleveling feature just makes your 4runner look better when towing.

I don't have this feature on my '02 4runner, but i think it's a great system to have...so i will vote anyway!

Hope this helps.

 

[John]

I like the air suspension. It makes a big difference when hauling heavy loads (I've had around 1000 pounds in my 4Runner).

It is, of course, not only an auto-leveling feature; it can be adjusted by the driver. It is possible to raise the rear of the vehicle up to 1.5 inches at speeds less than 19mph, and to lower it .75 inches at speeds less than 7mph. Raising the suspension to its highest does not increase ground clearance, but does improve angle of departure.

 

[Thai]

John, whoops, my mistake...i didn't know that you could manually control the rear height. (Now i think about it, it's a similar system to the GX's...so dumb of me!):duh:

I have edited my post above to delete my mistake...so no one will ever know about it....: