Club 80-90 Forums

Hi all - looking for some first hand experience of engine and suspension upgrade options.
We are currently in Mongolia and have so far survived the rugged terrain but it have been an adrenaline rush so far.
We are running on trailmaster shocks and springs and because we are on the heavy side, we are hitting the stops far too often for comfort and the ride is horrible. Maybe thats just the way it has to be but if there is anyone out there who has fox shocks or any suggestions based on experience on how to improve the ride ( apart from chucking stuff out! ) then we are all ears.
Also having issues with the power. In sand and up inclines we are woefully under powered. The van had a 1.9tdi golf mk3 engine fitted prior to our ownership and have heard about possible improvements with alternative plant. Again, any advice based on personal experience much appreciated.

Is the engine a tdi or td? Tdi should be plenty powerful enough, but can be chip tuned for more.
Suspension wise, there will always be a trade off. Stock suspension is probably the best compromise. The fox/gowesty set up looks good and is set able for different terrain, so might be for you.

did you weigh the van before depart ?

I am no sand driving expert but I know what its like to cycle through! Dry sand is a massive power-sapper, I always thought that driving through it requires going reasonably fast, to avoid bogging down.

PS how does all this relate to the post title of "Subaru and extreme suspension"

Burley motorsport have the best rep for suspension.. Not got info yet...

Power.. Things to check (dont know your symptoms..)
If its got none/less than it had..
Fuel.filter? Change it as it might be blocked
Air filter.. Clean it.. As it might be blocked (has the snorkel been emptied every day?)
Check the intake hoses (from snorkel to turbo) are not colapsing under load (ie when the throttle.is wide open
Sand.. Needs low gear and 3000 rpm.. As said.. Its a power sapping thing to.drive on..