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Old 09-22-2019, 01:10 AM   #21
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Join Date: Aug 2017
Location: Panamerican Highway
Posts: 16
Wanted to provide a review/opinion after driving our van 1400 miles from SoCal to Seattle.

I had the 'complete performance package' installed, which included the 6" Baja Grocery Getter, custom rear leaf pack (8 leafs), fox shocks in all four corners, and the fox steering dampener. I am running stock 245/75R16 tires (BFG KO2), and did NOT install any spacers (yet).

First off, I'll say that I am happy I upgraded my suspension. Besides looking good (I've always smiled every time I see my van, but I noticed my cheeks are stretching a bit more now), the handling and ride are definitely improved.

I traveled about 300 miles on the PCH so I could experience twists and turns at speed. While this van will never handle like my BMW 325xi, I felt more confident around the corners and on the rough spots than before.

The ride in back is noticeably improved, with the van handling road dips, expansion joints, and rough spots without the jarring sounds coming from the rear cabinets. One very noticeable improvement is the feeling when entering / exiting a parking lot with a dip or curb. Previously, I had to take these turns very slowly/cautiously because the van would rock back and forth with the feeling that the cabinets were at risk of popping open. Now, there is no rocking, only a smooth turn.

The remaining 1100 miles was on the nation's freeways, 101 in California, a state highway in Washington, and local roads. Traveling at 65 mph on the freeways was comfortable, and I did not notice the typical semi 'push' that I used to get anytime I passed a semi (or they passed me). I also experienced gusty sidewinds several times, and I am positive that the van handled significantly better than before.

Overall, after 1400 miles I am pleased with the improvement.

Would I recommend it to others? I would have to say 'maybe'. It is not a cheap upgrade. If you have the cash available, have a functional van, and don't need the money for other more critical upgrades - then I would recommend it. If you still have a bunch of work to do on your van, I would put your money into doing the other work first. Get your van setup so that you don't come up short $$ on the key features, and so that your van is at full weight (also, the additional height would have added to my build challenges!) Then, if you have the extra cash - go for it!

I plan on adding 1 1/2" spacers and increasing the tire size, but will do those in the future (once I am re-employed [emoji12] after our 8 month South America trip)

I'm including several photos. First is a before / after. The others are from the travels north. Click image for larger version

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Old 09-22-2019, 11:39 PM   #22
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Join Date: Jul 2017
Location: San Clemente, CA
Posts: 1,377
Glad it worked out for you. And glad you posted a review for the future!
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