Anybody doing an LR3 as an off-road rig?

[Mack73]

I took mine offroad a couple weeks ago. It was simply amazing.

 

[nwoods]

Petersons 4WD Off Road magazine voted the LR4 best off road vehicle of the year for 2011. I didn't know that until today, when I got the latest issue and it had their 1 year wrap up. 40,000 miles, "hammered the crap out it" and nary a problem. Kinda funny that they didn't know about Super Extended Mode though

 

[Jwestpro]

While it's certainly feasible to do one, htere isn't a kit out there yet. The factory did coils in a few LR3's in 2005, so the computer programming is possible, but the integration of the airbags in 2006 and later with all the traction devices and hill descent and terrain response is very intertwined.

On the MKIII, there are two different companies that make computers to "fix" all that integration and retain the traction control by "tricking" the computers to think the truck still has airbags.

There are kits now. For example Atlantic British has one. From what I read it's standard steel springs though, not "lift" versions. Being an independent suspension design, I can't imagine lift via taller and/or heavy duty springs is going to be simple because the geometry changes unlike when lifting a solid axle vehicle (aside from the normal issues like radius arms when lifting a solid axle vehicle)

While a steel spring lr3 would be fun to try out, I like that I can change my height higher when needed but not be committed to that height while driving 4000 miles on the highway. There are trade offs but switching to steel springs is a project not high on my list, first would be a 2nd fuel tank.

 

[nwoods]

Being an independent suspension design, I can't imagine lift via taller and/or heavy duty springs is going to be simple because the geometry changes unlike when lifting a solid axle vehicle (aside from the normal issues like radius arms when lifting a solid axle vehicle)

I lifted my coiler about 3" total above OEM stock. The a-arms used on the coilers are the same as the air-suspension equipped models. The range of adaptability is there in the stock componentry, you just need to realign the tires to accommodate the permanent lift. No, it is not superior to the air-suspended versions other than durability, and ride height at speed. Australians love it because of the huge distances they need to traverse in lifted mode. For most people, the adjustable height, superior ride, and increased articulation of the air suspension models is more beneficial.

 

[Jwestpro]

If you really could be solidly lifted though, meaning stable and sharper handling than when fully lifted on air, then you could regain some ride comfort by way of lower pressure in larger tires.

It's sounding more like a good idea at some point. If I could feel more stable with the weight, while also higher, high enough to run at least a 285/65x18, then this would be very interesting. My deal is more about snow clearance which so far has been more about total height before articulation because it's generally on what is otherwise a double track/trail.

Heavy duty springs would presumably handle my rolling weight better too? I checked this trip and it was 8220 lbs on 1/2 tank fuel.

 

[franko]

Anymore new goodies for the LR3,anyone doing the coil swap and liking it .

 

[LR Max]

I'd rather have the air suspension. It would be nice for day-to-day use when the biggest obstacle I traverse is a pothole, leave it in a low-mode. But when I needed it...like, once every two or three months, just press a button and boom. Good to go.

 

[racehorse]

I considered swapping out the air suspension for springs - using the atlantic british kit - after needing an air compressor but after a good talk with a land rover master tech and my favorite indy land rover tech in socal i decided to stay with air.

Both have done swaps on FFRR and they each said independent of the other that bottom line - they sucked. Bounced like pogo sticks on bumps and ruined the ride. They weren't sure what that would translate to on an LR3 but it was enough to convince me to stay with the air suspension. They also said the noise increased with squeaks and rattles.

Also, the new compressor out for the LR4 is the one they use now in the LR3 - some kind of mercedes based compressor i think? - that is supposed to be light years ahead of the already dependable LR3 air compressor already installed. In fact, they say you can't really find the old compressor out there in too many places for purchase and at the dealerships, the new one is all they install on the LR3s needing replacement. So, my indy tech's advice was get the new compressor and protect the airlines/pump/tank and you should be solid for overlanding.

 

[Nikson]

A well appointed LR3 can be a beautiful thing and my understanding is that the LR3 change all the rules at Moab due to its amazing ability.

Here is my 2008 LR3 G4. Locked Rear Diff, front skid plate, Warn 9000 winch and Goodyear MTRs. All you need. Rock sliders would be nice.

D

Isnt this G4 riding 19 inch wheel?

 

[Mack73]

Isnt this G4 riding 19 inch wheel?

Yes all G4's ran on 19" wheels. The tires are GoodYear MT/R's but have since been discontinued. You can't get those tires anymore.

There was a rumor that GoodYear made some more for the LR4 that did the Mongolia run for the 1 millionth trip several months ago.

I did also see reference to a duratrac in 19" in Europe

 

[unseenone]

I prefer the air suspension for any number of reasons. The ride is much softer with the Koni FSD's installed. If anyone is at SCARR and wants to try it to see the difference, your welcome.

 

[A.J.M]

These are the Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac's. As fitted to my 04 HSE. Same off road abilities, but much improved road manners, less tyre roar at speed etc.

Only off road mod i've done to the car, until 2 weeks ago when i fitted a sump guard.
Coped very well with the mud and clay terrain i drove through, got to love Scotland for wet muddy days.. lol.

The D3 does over 1000 miles a month, only part changed changed in my ownership has been drop links all round, for £56 for genuines, fitted myself.
Keep them used, fit decent parts and don't fit cheap service parts. I love mine, fantastic car, great road manners, great off road, most practical car in the family and does everything i ask of it. Bar get 25 mpg (UK gallons and diesel engine) but my commute is to blame for that.

 

[reds12t]

Really wish we had the 255/55r19 Duratrac here in the US, they look good on your Discovery A.J.M.

 

[A.J.M]

Do they not sell them in the US?
If so, that's very strange. I would have thought with the larger off road market, Goodyear would have sold them.

They were made in South Africa, my tyre supplier booked his order in November and they were delivered mid January, i had mine fitted on the 29th.
They are an expensive tyre though, they were £184 each. plus £46 delivery and £75 fitting.

At the current exchange rate of £1 - $1.52 that works out at $279 a corner, or $1,398 for 5. Plus whatever shipping and fitting costs are.

I chose them over the General grabber AT, as the AT didn't cope as well in muddy conditions, Scotland has loads of muddy places to drive in, so to avoid getting stuck and having to be recovered, i chose the Dura. Plus it has that exclusive factor as well, being a rare tyre.

They are good in snow and ice as well, but obviously you drive to the conditions as 2.8 tons can and will slide for a good distance if you get it wrong..

 

[Dendy Jarrett]

I had the Goodyear Duratracks on a 2008 G4 Competition LR3. The challenge is they wear quickly and after about 10K miles, they get loud.
They indeed are no longer available in the US, but I have to say, they were the best looking tire ever on a truck!

D