ryanrs posted:

Took it for a long test drive along the spine of the Santa Cruz Mountains from 92 to 152. Starts off as smooth 50+ mph twisties, then steadily degrades as you head south, until it's rutted dirt road as you buzz the rednecks at Ormsby. Then down Hecker Pass into Watsonville, up 1, and up and over 17.

It was a good shakedown test, and the van passed! So I guess this means I officially own a lifted offroad minivan, which is amazing.

Before and after shots of the lift:



Measuring from the ground to the top of the fender arch, I gained 3" in front and 1.5" in the rear, which will make a big difference offroad, I think. Note that my old springs were sagging, so it's more like +1.5" over stock, not 3". Driving dynamics were notably similar to an unladen truck. Not great, but not punishing, and didn't feel unpredictable or dangerous.