Original Springs Replacement: How do you know when is time to do it?
I own a Montero IO 3 doors with 145.000 km and I would like to know how do you realize it is time to replace the Springs?
Since I live in Argentina and Mitsubishi has not an important presence here I would like also to ask for advice if it is a "General" way to ask for compatible Springs for the IO (I found there is no manufacturer / importer selling Springs for the IO in their catalogs but I assume there shoud be Springs for other car maker compatible for the IO).
Any idea on how to order them in case I needed? Any special size or specification?
I do really thanks for your help.
Syndicate
There is no set time or mileage to replace springs
Springs are not considered as "wear" items, so there is no specific time frame or distance at which they are changed - they can however, become weak & sag and need replacement from time to time, and this will be determined by how the particular vehicle is used - if the vehicle is repeatedly overloaded, the springs will sag sooner.
Measure the vehicle height and compare it to another similar vehicle and that will tell you if yours has sagged.
To the best of my knowledge the iO front springs are unique to the iO - they are the longest, softest springs I have ever seen on a vehicle this size, and perhaps because of that they are prone to sagging, the easiest place to source replacements seems to be out of Europe (KYB has a line of both springs & shocks/struts), rear springs might be easier to source, I believe Mazda springs can be used, but again, KYB can supply.
In terms of ordering, you're pretty much on your own - a google search on KYB Europe should get you a link to their website where you can download their catalogue or guides and you can find the part numbers you need that way, Amazon UK or eBay UK should have, and shipping to your country is where the challenge lies.