ASK ARB – OME
suspension fitment

Hi ARB,

I’ve got a question concerning the use of OME suspension – can I fit the shocks and struts without the OME springs, and then add the springs later?

My plan is to fit a custom made bull bar to my 98 Grand Vitara (because ARB does not make one), along with OME springs and shocks/struts to compensate for the additional weight. However, I will need to replace at least the rear shocks in the near future, and this will need to be done before I am in a position to install the bull bar. 

I really don’t want to fit standard shocks and then replace them with OME in six months time. The ARB catalogue indicates that the shocks can be used with the standard springs. I need to know if adding the springs at a later date would have any negative effects?

– Ernest

Hi Ernest,

Yes you can fit our Nitrocharger shocks to your Grand Vitara’s original springs with confidence as the Old Man Emu valving is well suited to them as well as our upgraded coil springs, and you will notice a pronounced improvement in the ride quality and handling of your vehicle.

I would, however, suggest that you only change the rear shock absorber initially as you mentioned they need to be replaced soon.

Because your vehicle has a coil over front shock absorber design, which is where the coil spring is mounted onto the shock absorber body via a coil seat, there is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours work in removing and reassembling them that you would be charged for.

As you are going to fit our OME upgraded coils after you have fitted your bull bar, I recommend you have the front absorbers replaced when the coils are installed as this will save you paying twice for the fitment costs.

Ernest, you can look forward to joining the large worldwide club of happy Old Man Emu Grand Vitara suspension owners, and I am sure you will enjoy many years of happy driving with OME under your vehicle.

Syd Groves
(Old Man Emu Product Manager)