Modifications

Lift Kits – Are available for all models -- 2 inch, 50 mm with [Queensland Department of Transport Approval]. Similar non approved kits are available, as are 3 inch, 75 mm and higher. A 40 mm strut top block kit is available for the later AWD models.

Tyres – For standard 13 inch rims that are fitted to early L Series 1974 -- 1979, MY Series 1980 – 1984, L Series 1985 – 1992, fit higher profile 185x75x13 tyres. For Forester and Outbacks fitted with 15 inch rims, fit higher profile 205x 75x15 tyres. For later Forester and Outbacks fitted with 16 inch rims fit higher profile 215x 65x16 tyres.

Wheels – For all the early models fitted with 13 inch rims, a large range of 14 inch rims are available to gain more clearance. The range includes Peugeot steel rims, Speedy spoke rims, correct off set steel Scorpion rims, alloy and rare alloy factory rims.

Sump Guards – All early models had standard steel sump guards fitted. These can be improved by widening, and welding reinforcing ribs, or replaced by bigger after market alloy or steel bent to shape types. From the series 2 Liberty’s steel sump guards were not fitted. All Liberty, Forester and Outback models have plastic splash guards fitted as standard. These can replaced with an air bag approved alloy moulded type, or the cheaper bent to shape flat alloy type. Guards can be fitted to the mid mounted fuel tanks from the Liberty onwards.


Boot Protection – MY models are the only models fitted with standard rubber front outer cv and rear doj boot protectors. For early L’s and later L’s brackets have to be made. Bigger rubber protectors can cut out of conveyor belt material, for the front and rear. For the current Liberty, Forester and Outback models the front outer boots are made out of a stronger and more durable plastic material. Also their rear suspension lay out helps protects the rear boots.

Air Intakes – In dusty conditions re useable foam based oiled air filters are available for all models. For deep water crossings custom made snorkels are available for most models. For carby models an air cleaner extension pipe can be fitted and turned back to the firewall. Radiator blinds are also useful made of tarp material and should be big enough to cover all the grille and under bumper air inlet. For water depths that are over the top of the bumper bar on Liberty, Forester and Outback models a blind MUST be fitted because of their lower air intake.

Electric Fan Override Switch – Fitting a manual override switch to control the electric radiator fans, especially during water crossings. In the off position it stops the force of the water pushing the spinning blades into the radiator, causing a puncture. A 2 way switch can be fitted to the older models, a switch and a buzzer unit is available for Liberty, Forester and Outbacks.

MY Front Guard Cut – Avoids the famous MY front guard dent. The lower edge of the front guards [120 mm] can be cut away, from the bottom of the bumper, for a better front approach angle.

Diff Protection – On lifted MY and later L’s models the rear diff carrier can be reinforced by welding on metal ribbing. For better ground clearance the RHS lower edge [25 mm] can be cut off.

Suspension – For all models after market firmer and higher coil springs, strut inserts and complete strut legs are available. For early L’s, MY’s and later L’s a double shock system can be fitted to front struts via brackets using rear X series Falcon shocks. For more rear suspension travel on lifted early L’s and MY’s fit SWB Landcruiser shocks. For better rear load carrying on lifted early L’s and MY’s, fit pump up air shocks. Another option is to fit rear coils springs from L’s sedans to lifted MY’s in between the rear bump stops. A double shock system using brackets can be fitted to the rear of later L’s. On L 85 – L 86 models with adjustable rear shocks, fit exhaust clamps to the adjusting collars to stop spreading and collapsing under loaded conditions. This can also happen to the current models with the double wishbone rear end.

Diff and Gearbox Breathers – In water crossings to stop water entering the diff and gearbox, fit longer extension hoses to the breathers.

Distributors and Leads – On older models waterproof the distributor by sealing the cap down with silicone sealant, and fit an extension breather hose to the distributor bottom drain hole. Also seal around the ignition lead caps.

Bell Housing – All models have a steel bell housing bottom plate fitted, except automatic Liberty, Forester and Outback models that do not have anything. To stop sand and dirt entering the bell housing, seal with silicone sealant around the inspection plate and gap between the gearbox. Another way which is the easiest to do fit a block of high density foam 30cm x 50mm between the engine cross member and gearbox.

Gearbox ratios – In most 4WD conditions the manual dual range gearbox is best, although the current Liberty, Forester and Outback automatic’s are good in the sand. Also some electronic mods can be done to the autos to improve drive. The best 4 speed gearbox ratio is the early MY’s fitted with the lower 3.9 ratio diffs. It is the same for the 5 speed dual range L series. The series 1 Forester 97 – 03 has the better low range than the current 2.5 litre model. All manual model Outbacks have the same higher low range as the current 2.5 litre Forester. From the early models most parts are inter changeable, so gearbox gear ratios, and diff changes can be done without much trouble. For example the L series low range gear set will fit into all AWD dual range gearboxes from the Liberty onwards. Also Scorpion sell a lower low range gear set for the AWD models.

Bull bars and Rear bars – A large range of front and rear bars, and tow bars are available for all models. They range from [air bag approved nudge bars to front bars] and rear bars incorporating a towing tongue, fitted with swing away tyre and jerry can carriers. When bars are fitted the front and rear towing points MUST be refitted. It is a good idea to fit the open type hooks off bigger 4WD models.

Gearbox Whine – To stop gearbox whine on steep climbs in low range, overfill the gearbox with an extra ¼ - ½ litre of oil. At the normal oil level, there is not enough oil to cover all the gears on steep climbs.

Rust Prevention – regularly check to keep clear all sill and door drain holes around the car by pushing wire through the holes. Check other areas around and under the car for dirt and sand build up especially behind the front mud flaps and inner splash guards, inside and under the rails, around the petrol filler pipe, bottoms of the inner guards of wagons and Brumby’s, rear sill panel on Brumby’s, the front valance panel below the windscreen. On MY’s keep free the front windscreen drain holes about 80 mm in from the bottom corner under the seal. When replacing the bonded in front windscreen on the later L’s, Liberty, Forester and Outbacks make sure that no body paint is scratched off. If this happens and is not treated properly future rust problems can occur.