Might have found something that explains it. I had a quick check on the EFS website. The following PDF lists all the MN suspension parts
[url]
http://www.efs4wd.com.au/Online%20Catal ... shi/25.pdf[/url]
I'm using the
Elite series shock absorbers on all corners, and
150kg constant load rear leaf springs.
I discussed this with him when I placed the order, and the HD/150kg constant load setup seemed to be the best choice for adding bar work & winch soon after, and suiting the rig primarily a camper/tourer, so I don't fault the choice of parts.
I've got the
MIT-109HE coils (its even printed on the springs) which are described as
"
75-100kg load bearing accessories" where as the standard ones listed above it are "up to 65kg" load bearing accessories"
So my bull bar was probably only 50kg with brackets. So maybe when I add a 35kg winch, which will push it up to 75kg+, the extra weight will settle the suspension lower, and it wont rest on the bump stops any more? IE: I'll have 75kg+ on the front, thus matching the coils designed for 75kg plus. Sound logical?With all the HD springs & extra load leafs, but no extra weight to settle it down, I can understand why it was so firm, especially if it was resting on the top bump stops up front. My mechanic suggested I probably need a little more weight in the back to settle it, as he thought it was rebounding quickly and giving a little bounce, so I'll see if I can somehow safely hang some extra weight on the front, and an extra 50kg-100kg in the back, and take it for another drive.
Have other MN owners opted for heavy duty coils & leaf springs to handle bar work and a load in the back? I guess its brand specific to your choice of suspension & design.
I'd love to better understand the setup on a rig that can drive like its on rails and still be comfortable at speed on rough roads, like many members suggest they have.