Toyota Land Cruiser LX570 Lift Kits - Improving Capability

Understanding LX570 Lift Kits

The Toyota Land Cruiser LX570 is an incredibly capable luxury SUV right out of the box. With its robust construction, powerful V8 engine, and sophisticated 4WD system, it can traverse difficult terrain and challenging conditions. However, some LX570 owners want to enhance their vehicle's off-road performance even further with a lift kit.

What is a LX570 Lift Kit?

A LX570 lift kit is an aftermarket suspension modification that lifts the vehicle higher off the ground. It allows for larger diameter wheels and tires to be installed for increased ground clearance. Lift kits enable owners to tackle more rugged terrain without damage to their vehicle.

Benefits of Installing a Lift Kit

There are several advantages to installing an aftermarket lift kit on a LX570:

• Increases ground clearance allowing the vehicle to clear large obstacles and ruts
• Allows for larger, more aggressive off-road tires improving traction
• Improves approach, departure, and breakover angles
• Gives the LX570 an imposing, rugged look
• Levels out the vehicle's stance when loaded or towing

Lift Kit Components

There are several components that go into a complete LX570 lift kit system:

• Coil spring spacers or coil springs
• Strut extensions
• Differential drop spacers
• Adjustable control arms
• Sway bar relocation brackets
• Extended brake lines, drivelines
• Skid plates

Reputable aftermarket companies engineer lift kits to work seamlessly together for optimal performance both on and off-road.

Types of LX570 Lift Kits

Coil Spring Spacers

One of the most affordable options is a spacer lift kit. Polyurethane or aluminum spacers are installed above the coil springs to lift the suspension. This simplifies the installation process compared to other lift kits. However, coil spacer lift kits only provide a moderate increase in lift height - typically 1.5 to 3 inches.

Coilover Lift Kits

Coilover lift kits replace the entire factory coil springs with longer units to provide greater suspension travel and lift. These kits allow owners to tune the ride stiffness and ride height by adjusting the spring preload. Coilover kits deliver up to 4 inches of lift and come in handy for heavier additions like steel bumpers.

Torsion Bar Key Lift Kits

The torsion bar suspension on the LX570 can also be cranked up with torsion key lift kits. Special adjustment keys unthread the torsion bars enabling them to be rethreaded at a higher torsion value for increased ride height. This simpler process has limitations depending on torsion bar length and strength.

Lift Kit Wheel & Tire Upgrades

To benefit fully from running a LX570 lift kit, upgrading the factory wheels and tires is highly recommended. Not only does this improve the vehicle's off-road performance, but larger tires fill out the lifted wheel wells improving both aesthetics and stability.

Wheel Spacers

Installing wheel spacers brings the tires outward to fill enlarged fender flares. Wheel spacers come in widths from .5-inches to 2-inches for precise adjustment. These are crucial for accommodating big 35"+ tires under a lifted LX570. New backspaced aftermarket wheels combined with spacers also greatly enhance the look.

Fender Modifications

Sometimes even with wheel spacers, fitting large tires requires trimming or folding the outer fender edges and plastics. Small fender mods open up ample room for extreme rock crawling tires without ruining the factory appearance.

Upgrading brakes, adding differential covers, reinforcing suspension mounts are all recommended when significantly increasing tire size. This maintains proper gearing, and compensates for the added rotational mass.

FAQs

What is the tallest lift I can run on my LX570?

Most manufacturers recommend limiting lift heights to 3 inches on the LX570. Beyond this can require extensive supporting modifications. Installing lifts over 3 inches risks component strain and drivetrain damage.

Do I need to re-gear with bigger tires?

Once tire overall diameter exceeds 3% over stock, re-gearing differentials is advised. This maintains proper gear ratios to prevent drivetrain damage and torque loss. Upgrade axle shafts or install locking differentials for oversized tires above 35 inches.

Will a lift kit void my factory warranty?

Any aftermarket lift kit exceeding 2 inches essentially voids the factory suspension warranty. Other components like steering, driveline remain covered unless lift-related damage occurs. Most kits over 2 inches require an alignment shop waiver.

What lift kit brand is the best quality?

Icon Vehicle Dynamics, King Shocks, OME, and Dobinsons suspension lift kits offer exceptional ride quality and performance. Buy from brands using high-end materials that flight-test products on vehicles like the 200 Series Land Cruiser.