Dobinsons IMS 45mm Monotube Lift Kit for Isuzu MU-X 2013-2020

This Dobinsons kit provides approximately 45mm (1.8 inches) of lift over factory ride height, measured at the wheel arch when correctly loaded with your constant accessories. This lift allows fitment of 265/70R17 or 265/65R18 tyres on standard offset wheels without rubbing under normal articulation, significantly improving ground clearance and off-road capability. Actual lift height can vary by 10-15mm depending on spring rate selection and your vehicle's constant load — heavier front accessories like winches and bullbars will compress springs slightly more than lighter setups. For maximum tyre clearance with 32-inch tyres or wider, additional modifications like body mount chop or aftermarket flares may be required on full suspension compression.

This kit includes everything needed to replace your MU-X's original shock absorbers and coil springs: two IMS monotube front shocks, two front raised coil springs (45mm lift), two IMS monotube rear shocks, and two rear raised coil springs (45mm lift). All shocks feature high-pressure monotube gas technology with premium seals and bushings. Spring rates are customizable during ordering to match your specific constant accessory load. The kit does not include upper control arms, extended brake lines, or hardware like U-bolts and spring seats, which use factory components. For optimal suspension geometry at this lift height, we recommend separately purchasing adjustable upper control arms and extended brake lines.

Yes, when correctly specified with appropriate rear spring rates for your constant rear accessories, this kit significantly improves towing performance compared to worn factory suspension. The IMS monotube shocks provide superior damping control under load, reducing rear-end sag and improving stability when towing within your MU-X's rated capacity (typically 3000kg braked). The key is selecting rear springs that account for permanent rear accessories but not the trailer weight itself — occasional towing loads should not influence spring rate selection. For maximum towing versatility and the ability to adjust support based on trailer weight, many customers pair this lift kit with supplementary airbag suspension, which allows on-demand load levelling without over-springing the vehicle for unladen driving.

While not absolutely mandatory for a 45mm lift, upgraded adjustable upper control arms are strongly recommended to optimize suspension geometry and restore correct castor and camber angles. At 45mm of lift, your factory control arms will position the ball joints at more extreme angles, potentially reducing their effective lifespan and limiting your ability to achieve ideal wheel alignment settings. Adjustable upper control arms allow your suspension specialist to dial in correct geometry, improving steering feel, reducing tyre wear, and maximizing articulation off-road. If you're running larger tyres or planning frequent off-road use, control arms become even more important. Many MU-X owners install the lift kit first and add control arms later if they experience alignment or handling issues.

Yes, a full four-wheel alignment is absolutely mandatory after installing any lift kit, and is typically a condition of warranty coverage. Raising your MU-X by 45mm alters suspension geometry, changing castor, camber, and toe angles from factory specifications. Without proper alignment, you'll experience accelerated and uneven tyre wear, wandering steering, reduced handling predictability, and potential safety issues. A professional alignment performed by a shop with 4WD experience ensures all angles are set within Isuzu's specifications (adjusted for the lift height) using precision equipment. Most installers include alignment in their installation quote. We recommend checking alignment again after the initial 500km break-in period once springs have fully settled to their final ride height.

Spring rate selection should be based solely on your constant accessory load — equipment permanently installed on your vehicle, not passengers, camping gear, or towing loads. For the front, weigh or estimate your bullbar, winch, driving lights, upgraded intercooler, and any other fixed accessories. For the rear, calculate drawer systems, dual batteries, rear bar, spare wheel carriers, roof racks, and permanently mounted roof-top tents. Dobinsons provides spring rate options covering light (minimal accessories), medium (typical touring setup with bullbar and basic gear), and heavy (full touring build with winch and extensive accessories) constant loads. When ordering, you'll select front and rear spring rates independently. If you're between categories or unsure, our team can recommend the optimal spring rates based on your specific build and intended use.

With this 45mm lift, most MU-X owners can comfortably fit 265/70R17 (approximately 31.6 inches diameter) or 265/65R18 (approximately 31.5 inches) tyres on standard or slightly negative offset wheels without rubbing during normal driving and moderate articulation. Some light trimming of plastic inner guards may be required for full lock turning at extreme articulation. If you're planning 32-inch tyres (285/70R17 or 285/65R18), additional clearance work like body mount chop or aftermarket wheel flares is typically necessary to prevent rubbing on compression. Tyre fitment also depends on wheel offset and backspacing — more aggressive offset wheels will push tyres outward, increasing likelihood of rubbing. Our team can provide specific fitment advice based on your exact wheel and tyre combination.

This Dobinsons IMS lift kit is backed by Dobinsons' comprehensive manufacturer warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship under normal use conditions. Warranty terms typically include extended coverage on shock absorbers (often 2-5 years depending on model and use) and coil springs (usually lifetime warranty against sag or breakage under correctly specified load ratings). Warranty coverage requires professional installation, proof of purchase, and adherence to load ratings and maintenance guidelines including proper spring rate selection. The warranty does not cover damage from accident, misuse, overloading beyond spring specifications, or wear items like bushings and seals after normal service life. Specific warranty terms and registration process are provided with your kit, and our team can answer any warranty questions before purchase.

Absolutely — the Dobinsons IMS Monotube kit is specifically engineered to deliver excellent on-road comfort and highway manners while providing enhanced off-road capability when needed. The monotube shock design with precisely calibrated valving provides compliant damping over small road imperfections and expansion joints, reducing fatigue on long highway drives. Unlike overly stiff "off-road only" setups, this kit maintains composed handling during highway lane changes, crosswinds, and emergency maneuvers. When correctly spring-rated for your constant load, the ride quality often surpasses worn factory suspension while adding ground clearance and load capacity. Thousands of Australian MU-X owners tour tens of thousands of kilometres annually on this setup, enjoying comfortable daily driving, confident highway towing, and capable off-road performance when the bitumen ends.