Need help converting LX80 solid rear axle -> IRS

**iJohnny** · 26-01-2012, 05:30 PM

Hey guys, just need to know a few things about converting an LX80 diesel Mark II solid rear axle -> IRS. Anyone know of any / recommend workshops in Melbourne that will be willing to put out the work? I am not very mechanical minded, so i will most likely be sending it to a shop to get done.
Is there a really big difference between Solid Rear Axle vs. IRS? Will i still be able to throw in coilovers / springs / work on the suspension just like a IRS (MX83, GX81, JZX81)?

Any help will be much appreciated

**George** · 26-01-2012, 07:05 PM

vastly improves handling, partly due to ability to adjust rear toe/camber. Seen a couple conversion from leaf springs to irs, done either by welding frame and bolting suspension assembly to it or welding in complete structure from donor

**masterofsinanju** · 26-01-2012, 08:10 PM

Talk to an engineer first. Changes like this are big and you'll need engineer to sign of on the work. You'll be able to make whatever subsequent suspension mods were available for the IRS donor car unless there are mods made to the cradle when it's installed.
For enjoyment, check sheepers RA28 it has an r32 gts/r irs conversion.

It's important you post pics and worklog of the swap here. Car cannot be legal (this may not actually be true) unless I get to see how it is progressing.

Sorry I can't suggest anyone to do the work but an engineer may be able to give some pointers to folk he has worked with.

**Hen** · 26-01-2012, 10:27 PM

Any reason not to buy an MX83 and swap your good bits over into it?

IRS conversion at a workshop then engineering sounds like an expensive and tricky process.

**Mole** · 26-01-2012, 10:58 PM

The cost of parts and labour would exceed the cost of several MX83s combined I would imagine...

**iJohnny** · 26-01-2012, 11:06 PM

Okay thanks for the input guys, was looking at an LX80 for sale and was just wanting to see how much it would take to convert to JZX81 stats, but it will definitely take too much effort + time + money. Guess it will be more worth it waiting for a GX81 / JZX81 to pop up or might just find myself another MX83 and 1jz swap from there, without the hassle of converting a Solid Rear