Trail edition with our without KDSS...

[mook21]

OK, I am definitely set on a trail edition (hoping white is an option for 2012... if not, has anyone tried special ordering in white?), but have one serious question (ok, several) about KDSS.
The first question concerns maintenance. It just seems that a more complex system like this can be expensive to maintain as the vehicle starts getting up in miles, I typically keep a new vehicle 10+ years. Has anyone experienced, or have info on required or necessary maintenance on the KDSS? Since the hydraulics are all connected, does this eliminate shock absorber replacement or does it necessitate replacing everything when it wears out?

Second question on KDSS is whether it really makes a huge difference in road handling and in the range of motion of each wheel when offroads.

Third question on KDSS is lifting the vehicle. If I want to lift the 4Runner, will KDSS prevent me from doing that?

Thanks!

 

[Ryan_S]

Get it. /thread


Seriously though. It's been available on LC for a while. It's a pretty simple system, so afaik there isnt really anything for maintenance. Look at overland warehouse, as well as others, for proven lifts w/KDSS.

 

[SeattleMike]

It's worth it.

1) Yes, it's an extra system that might need maintenance. So are crawl control and terrain select and a rear locking differential, but the trade off is worth the potential repair costs. As a passive system, you'll never need to worry about dealing with it as any maintenance is handled at the dealer.

2)On road, it's night and day between the TE and the SR5. Offroad it's nice to see one wheel stuff into the wheel well and the other wheel drop down to make ground contact. My last trip was the first where I ended up on three wheels, but we were in some deep gulleys.

3)Unlike XReas, KDSS stays in place with a new suspension/lift.

 

[453030]

I think it is the single best option available on the 5th gen 4Runner. As for lifting, I have no automotive experience and just installed my own suspension lift on my Trail/KDSS without problem.