Update suspension on 2018 Mazda BT50 dual cab?

Have an Ironman GVM upgrade kit fitted to our 2015 Landcruiser s/c ute.

Standard foam cell shocks have lasted for over 75K kms, and I’m just about to change to the Foamcell Pro’s before a Simpson/Madigan trip, then a CSR trip later in August. Have used the Pro’s on a previous L/C ute.

Front coils have been good but the rear springs sagged, and have recently found out they were only 400kg constant. Did carry a pallet of pavers for 600kms once, so mightn’t be entirely the springs fault. On the advice of a bloke, also with an Ironman kit, have just upgraded to a set of 600kg constants.

Bob

No experience with Ironman, but if you haven't committed to buy yet....

I have a Lovells GVM upgrade to 3500kg on my 2014 BT50, with Dobinson remote canister shocks all round. I use the weight - with the service canopy and fitout, our stuff and the towball weight it tours at about 3200kg. After 80,000km could not be happier.

Supplied and fitted by Network Automotive in Minto, NSW. Great after sales service with periodic checks and re-grease all FOC.

Usual disclaimer, just a satisfied customer.

I have a 2014, but found the stock springs way too soft to actually carry a moderate load on poor roads.

I binned them within the first 2000km and fitted Toughdog springs in the rear with the factory shocks as I'm not made of money and they still worked.

I kept the stock front end as it worked well enough until I put a bull bar on, then the springs didn't cope well and got replaced.

Hi,
Many thanks to you all for your reply.
I had the snorkel fitted at purchase – just picked the car up yesterday!
I'm looking at getting: canopy; alloy bullbar; roof-racks; 7-inch lights; recovery points; towbar; Maxtrax (or similar); flag; compressor; battery charger etc. Also, communications – UHF radio and satellite phone.
Because long range touring will be once a year at most, I could probably(?) do without the long range fuel tank and just supplement fuel needs with a couple of fuel-safe jerry cans.
I'll also try doing without drawers for the moment – although I can see them getting a look-in down the track.

Lots of options to consider – thanks once again!

Cheers & Regards,
Paul

For $2500 you have pretty much the choice of any suspension setup. Any reason you want to go Ironman?

For what it’s worth, I was given the option of Dobinson, EFS and Lovells/Bilstein for the same money. I chose Lovells/Bilstein and so far I’m very happy.

If you’re upgrading your suspension consider paying that little bit more and getting a gvm upgrade. From my experience with both a Ranger and a BT you will likely need it.

I have only got the one quote so far for suspension upgrade. I will be shopping around. Thanks for the advice.

Cheers,
Paul

After breaking the eye off an OME front shocker on the ranger last trip Kimberley a consideration would be the Dobinson shock absorber looks like a much stronger construction than others . I on the other hand have got the Ironman Pro shock absorber now which are good option as well I hope
Heavy construction I would be steering away from your more conventional type of shock absorber if travelling in remote rough locations .