2008 LR3(DIII) - Thinking about converting air suspension to coil overs...experience and/or thoughts?

[DC DII]

Our 08 LR3 is nearing 200,000 miles and the original air suspension is getting tired. 18" rims, BFG's, factory roof rack and some very very light towing - yard waste trailer, uhaul occasionally, bt very occasionally.

It is my wife's work car and its days of off roading/trails are over and it will be country road and highway almost 100% of the time. Own a heavily modified 2004 DII for camping and off roading.

SO...years ago when the conversions started I talked to and heard quite a few people really regret converting but the market was slim at the time and seems like the last few years there are a lot more options.

I run OME everything on my 2004 so am interested in the Atlantic British conversions but not sure which one. Want a firm ride with confidence but not stiff like the HD. We do run BFG's on her 18 inch rims as we are out in the country.

I don't mind the air suspension, but feel the system as a whole is getting old and tired. I will be doing the install myself.

So, for those of you that have switched what is your take now, in 2026? I see Terra Firma, OMEmu and Atlantic British branded for the most part - any recommendations???



Thinking the 2" lift, medium duty OME package from Atlantic British would be good for our needs.


Any and all input is greatly appreciated as we are getting the 1970's Cadillac land yacht motion on the country roads as of late


EDIT: Sorry if I missed a thread about this. I found one but the information was mostly, "hey, I did it" and not really helpful.


Thanks!
Erik

 

[rgallant]

Look at cost, the air suspension is not bad to do by yourself and lots of options. The problem with the spring conversions they are mostly aimed at off road use, so a lift, harder ride etc.

It's easier on a D3 than a D4. In my local club that off roads regularly all most all of the D3/D4 have stayed with the air.

I don't know of any good comparisons for regular use either, but up to 2007 the LR3 had a factory spring option.

 

[DC DII]

Appreciate the feedback. M wife is not keen on the lift as it's hers and a daily. I am seeing 2-3 inches seems to be the standard for the conversion kits.


Thanks!
Erik

 

[SC4ws]

I have the AB HD springs on my 08. I’ve actually never felt the air springs, but I can say these coils are a bit floaty and harsh at the same time. I’m thinking it’s more the shocks than the coils though. Not sure what shocks they supply. It definitely rides smoother weighted down, so if you’re not carrying gear or hauling, I’d opt for the MD.

And honestly, I wish it had the air springs still. You get more versatility and I assume it’s an overall nice ride. From what I read, DIY maintenance isn’t too bad if that’s something you’re into.

 

[DC DII]

I have the AB HD springs on my 08. I’ve actually never felt the air springs, but I can say these coils are a bit floaty and harsh at the same time. I’m thinking it’s more the shocks than the coils though. Not sure what shocks they supply. It definitely rides smoother weighted down, so if you’re not carrying gear or hauling, I’d opt for the MD.

And honestly, I wish it had the air springs still. You get more versatility and I assume it’s an overall nice ride. From what I read, DIY maintenance isn’t too bad if that’s something you’re into.

Overall it seems sticking with the air suspension is the answer. I can do the install myself this spring/summer.

Appreciate the reply and opinion...

Thanks!
Erik