Old Man Emu Suspension: Toyota Hilux Upgrade

Upgrading your Toyota Hilux with an Old Man Emu (OME) suspension is a game-changer, guys. If you're serious about off-roading, overlanding, or even just improving your daily driving experience, you've probably heard the buzz about OME. Let's dive deep into why this suspension system is so popular and how it can transform your Hilux.

Why Choose Old Man Emu for Your Hilux?

When it comes to suspension upgrades, you're flooded with options, right? So, why single out Old Man Emu? Well, OME isn't just about lifting your truck; it's about engineering a complete suspension solution tailored to your vehicle's specific needs. This is especially crucial for a workhorse like the Toyota Hilux. OME suspension kits are designed and tested in Australia, a land known for its rugged terrain and demanding conditions. This means the gear is built to last and perform under pressure. The key advantage of OME lies in its integrated approach. Instead of just providing shocks and springs, OME considers the vehicle's weight, intended use, and typical load. This holistic design philosophy ensures that every component works harmoniously to deliver optimal ride quality, handling, and load-carrying capacity. Whether you're hauling heavy equipment, navigating rocky trails, or simply cruising down the highway, an OME suspension provides a noticeable improvement in comfort and control. Plus, let's be real, a lifted Hilux looks awesome. It gives your truck a more aggressive stance and increases ground clearance, allowing you to tackle obstacles that would leave a stock Hilux stranded. The enhanced articulation also helps keep your tires on the ground, improving traction and stability on uneven surfaces. But it's not just about looks and off-road prowess. An OME suspension can also improve your Hilux's on-road manners. The upgraded shocks and springs reduce body roll during cornering, making the truck feel more planted and stable. This is particularly beneficial if you frequently drive on winding roads or carry heavy loads. Moreover, OME suspensions are known for their durability and longevity. The components are made from high-quality materials and undergo rigorous testing to ensure they can withstand the rigors of off-road use. This means you can expect your OME suspension to last for years, providing you with a reliable and consistent performance.

Key Components of an OME Suspension Kit

Okay, so what exactly comes in an Old Man Emu suspension kit? What makes it tick? Typically, an OME kit for your Toyota Hilux will include several key components, each playing a vital role in the overall system.

• Coil Springs: These are designed to provide the lift and load-carrying capacity. OME offers a range of coil springs to suit different Hilux models and weight configurations. You can choose from light, medium, or heavy-duty springs depending on your needs. For example, if you regularly carry heavy loads or have a lot of aftermarket accessories, you'll want to opt for heavy-duty springs. These springs are made from high-quality steel and are designed to resist sagging and maintain their ride height over time.
• Shock Absorbers: These control the movement of the suspension, dampening bumps and vibrations. OME shocks are renowned for their superior damping characteristics, providing a smooth and controlled ride both on and off-road. OME offers different shock options, including Nitrocharger Sport shocks, which are designed for enhanced performance and durability. These shocks feature a twin-tube design and multi-stage valving, which allows them to adapt to different driving conditions. They also have a larger oil capacity, which helps to dissipate heat and prevent fade during extended use.
• Leaf Springs: If your Hilux has leaf springs in the rear, the OME kit will include upgraded leaf springs designed to provide improved load-carrying capacity and ride quality. Like the coil springs, OME offers different leaf spring options to suit various weight configurations. These leaf springs are made from high-quality steel and are designed to resist sagging and maintain their ride height over time. They also feature inter-leaf friction pads, which help to reduce noise and improve ride comfort.
• U-Bolts and Bushings: These are essential for securing the leaf springs to the axle. OME provides heavy-duty U-bolts and high-quality bushings to ensure a secure and reliable connection. The U-bolts are made from high-strength steel and are designed to withstand the stresses of off-road use. The bushings are made from durable polyurethane and are designed to resist wear and tear.
• Greaseable Shackles and Hangers: These allow for greater flexibility and articulation, improving off-road performance. OME greaseable shackles and hangers are made from high-quality steel and are designed to provide a smooth and quiet operation. They also feature grease zerks, which allow you to easily lubricate the bushings and prevent them from drying out.
• Steering Stabilizer: This helps to reduce steering wheel vibrations and improve handling, especially on rough terrain. The OME steering stabilizer is designed to dampen vibrations and prevent the steering wheel from jerking in your hands. This can significantly improve your driving comfort and control, especially when driving on bumpy roads or off-road trails.

Each of these components is carefully engineered to work together, providing a balanced and well-rounded suspension upgrade. When choosing an OME kit, it's important to consider your specific needs and driving style to ensure you select the right components for your Hilux.

Choosing the Right OME Kit for Your Hilux

Selecting the correct Old Man Emu (OME) kit for your Toyota Hilux is crucial to achieving the performance and ride quality you're after. With so many options available, how do you narrow it down? Start by honestly assessing how you use your Hilux. Is it a daily driver that occasionally sees light off-road use? Or is it a dedicated off-road machine that tackles challenging trails every weekend? The answer to this question will significantly influence your choice of components.

Consider the weight you typically carry. Do you frequently haul heavy loads, such as tools, equipment, or camping gear? If so, you'll need heavier-duty springs and shocks to handle the extra weight without sagging or compromising ride quality. Also, think about any aftermarket accessories you have installed, such as a bull bar, winch, or roof rack. These accessories add weight to your Hilux and can affect the suspension's performance. Make sure to factor in the weight of these accessories when choosing your OME kit.

Once you have a good understanding of your needs, you can start researching the different OME kits available for your Hilux. OME offers a range of kits to suit various applications, from light-duty to heavy-duty. Each kit includes a combination of coil springs, shock absorbers, and other components designed to work together seamlessly. Pay close attention to the spring rates and shock valving of each kit. The spring rate determines how much weight the spring can support, while the shock valving controls the damping characteristics of the shock absorber. Choose a kit with spring rates and shock valving that are appropriate for your vehicle's weight and intended use.

Don't hesitate to consult with a suspension specialist or OME dealer. These professionals can provide expert advice and help you choose the right kit for your specific needs. They can also help you with the installation process, ensuring that your OME suspension is properly installed and adjusted. When talking to a specialist, be prepared to answer questions about your vehicle's weight, intended use, and any aftermarket accessories you have installed. The more information you can provide, the better they can assist you in choosing the right OME kit.

Installation and Maintenance

Alright, you've got your Old Man Emu (OME) suspension kit for your Toyota Hilux. Now what? Installation is a critical step. While some mechanically inclined folks might attempt a DIY install, it's generally recommended to have a professional handle it. Suspension work involves specialized tools and knowledge, and improper installation can lead to safety issues and performance problems. Find a reputable mechanic or suspension shop with experience installing OME kits on Hilux models. They'll ensure everything is installed correctly, torqued to the proper specifications, and aligned properly.

Once your OME suspension is installed, it's important to maintain it properly to ensure its longevity and performance. Regularly inspect the suspension components for any signs of wear or damage. Check the shocks for leaks, the springs for cracks, and the bushings for excessive play. If you notice any problems, address them promptly to prevent further damage. Lubricate the greaseable components, such as the shackles and hangers, on a regular basis. This will help to keep them moving freely and prevent them from seizing up. Use a high-quality grease that is specifically designed for suspension components. Also, keep your suspension clean by washing it regularly with soap and water. This will help to remove dirt, mud, and other debris that can damage the components.

After the installation and periodically, have your Hilux's alignment checked. A proper alignment is crucial for ensuring optimal handling and tire wear. If your Hilux is not properly aligned, it can cause the tires to wear unevenly and the vehicle to pull to one side. Finally, be mindful of the weight you carry. Overloading your Hilux can put excessive stress on the suspension components, leading to premature wear and damage. If you frequently carry heavy loads, consider upgrading to heavier-duty springs and shocks. By following these simple maintenance tips, you can keep your OME suspension performing its best for years to come. Regular maintenance will not only prolong the life of your suspension but also ensure your safety and driving comfort.

The Result? A Transformed Hilux

After upgrading your Toyota Hilux with an Old Man Emu (OME) suspension, you'll notice a significant transformation. The improved ride quality, enhanced handling, and increased off-road capability will make you fall in love with your Hilux all over again. Whether you're tackling tough trails, hauling heavy loads, or simply cruising down the highway, an OME suspension will provide you with a smoother, more comfortable, and more controlled driving experience.

The increased ground clearance will allow you to navigate obstacles that would have been impossible with a stock suspension. The improved articulation will keep your tires on the ground, providing you with better traction and stability on uneven surfaces. The enhanced handling will make your Hilux feel more planted and stable, reducing body roll during cornering and improving overall control. And the increased load-carrying capacity will allow you to haul heavy loads without compromising ride quality or safety. But perhaps the most rewarding aspect of upgrading to an OME suspension is the peace of mind that comes with knowing you have a high-quality, reliable system that is built to last. OME suspensions are designed and tested in some of the most challenging conditions on earth, so you can be confident that they will perform flawlessly no matter what you throw at them.

So, if you're looking to take your Toyota Hilux to the next level, an Old Man Emu suspension is definitely worth considering. It's an investment that will pay off in terms of improved performance, enhanced comfort, and increased confidence, both on and off the road. Guys, trust me, you won't regret it!