BY STEVEN BUTCHER | 4th Apr 2002


THE 78 Series LandCruiser released in October 1999 was the first Toyota workhorse ever to receive coil spring front suspension. Rear suspension was further revised in November 2000 - reportedly to improve vehicle posture. Nissan and Land Rover were both well ahead of Toyota on this one and have offered coils front and rear for some time. The utility's ride is noticeably improved and is now less prone to wander on the road. Toyota helps balance the front of the vehicle by running a wider track than the rear - 1435mm front and 1420mm rear. Front coil springs provide a couple of off-road benefits over leaf springs beyond the ride quality, such as greater approach angle - as the spring hanger is now removed from the front of the chassis, and steering arm protection - as the arm is tucked up above the two large L-beams that locate the front axle. Rear suspension is by long-leaf springs rated to one tonne. The main leaf carries the vehicle when empty and additional override springs engage the main leaf when the vehicle is loaded.
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