I you have got a suzuki 4x4 and you want to take it off-road, it wont be long before you start thinking about tinkering with it. It's a fact that every vehicle can be improved, whether for competitionuse, long-distance travel, everyday off-roading or occasional fun at play days or green laning.
There's no end to the modifications a resouceful and in some cases well heeled owner can make. No two off-roaders will take the same approach, so there aren't any right and wrongs as such, but based on the experiance of hundreds of 4x4 owners we have met over the years, we have put a small guide to modifications you may consider, not all of them are applicable to every suzuki, but treat them as a pick & mix of ways to make the most of your vehicle, and before long you'll have this basis of a project to be proud of!
LEAF SPRING
This is the most popular modification among owners for off-roading, what you need is springs that combine adequate weight bearing ability with as much travel as possible. fitting the right springs will have the effect of lifting your 4x4's suspension. there are few after market ways of doing this S.P.O.A (spring over axel), De-flex system (extending shackles), standard shackles (extension to original hangers). All will give you lift with results if you're in a trail-and-error approach.
LONG TRAVEL SHOCKERS
this mod should be seen as going hand in hand with your springs. since both work in conjunctions with each other, it makes sence to consider them as one. when you go shopping for a shocker then go for a shocker with a greater travel than your axel can achieve. That way you wont be limiting your vehicle's articulation. note that if you're lifting the suspension by using longer or heavy duty springs then you'll certainly need a new set of shockers.
POLYURETHANE BUSHES
Possibly the least sexy mod in the list, but one which many off-roaders have been very happy they made. basically, polybush for short slang replaces the original rubber parts. they are designed to last longer, but they are a little stiffer, meaning you should get tauter handing - especially if your vehicle's haviley laden. full change of these bushes is definiely worth thinking about once your old ones get worn or replacing with new springs.
BRAIDED BRAKE HOSES
simply a stronger replacment for the vulnerable hoses your vehicle has as standard. they'll need replacing if you lift your vehicle's suspension as they will go tight and can limit articulations or even rip off when off-roading, as it is the weakest link in the chain is recommended they are replaced before they enormous damage is done.
DISC BRAKES
more and more vehiciles are now changing the rear drums, to a rear brake disc. but for longer and better performance from this converion is the answer these days, there are kits out there for most vehicles, but do some reaserch first. will you still have an handbrake once the converiosn is done? reaserch, reaserch first before you buy or call sellers and ask these questions. most people who have converted to disc brakes (like us) found this converion well worth the time doing as you will see why when you change the rear shoes for the first time as the conversion saves time and money on new brakes as all off-roader know brake pads & shoes dont last long if they arnt cleaned every time as dirt acts like sandpaper and get wand down very easily as not everyone like to change the shoes as pads are quicker easier and cheaper to buy......