Help!!My (VX) Is Killing My Back!!!!!!!!!!!!

[jamessmith]

I am the original owner of this printine 01' Dragon with only 34K on the clock. For the last six months my back has been killing me every time I drove my baby.
What can I do to soften the suspension?
In the early 90's I was forced to sale my ISUZU AMIGO (XS), because of back issued.
I have recently purchased an Isuzu Trooper, what a nice ride, and my back feels sooooo much better.
What can I do to improve the Vx's harsh ride. Selling my baby is not an option, but I am well aware if I do not use the vehicle, I will eventually ruin this gem.
Any advise will be greatly appreciated!

[etlsport]

try some new shocks.. i test drove a VX with some softer gabriel shocks on it and the ride was very smooth.. but it detracted from the handling noticably from my own vx.. heard good things about rancho9000xl adjustable shocks too but have only ever ridden in a vx that had them set to be comparable to our stock ones

[Triathlete]

Do you have back issues?

Back brace?
Core strengthening program?

[Viatcheslav]

Use original shocks from trooper (Tokico shocks)! It is much softer then VX original shocks and much cheaper :gring:
Also you could use 265/70/16 wheel with 2 bar pressure.

[WormGod]

Didnt we have a few members sell their VXs some time ago with this same complaint? Damn shame, and I simply wouldnt understand since I dont have back issues. But ya, the best options would be those already mentioned. I have yet to come across a shock that REALLY dampens the ride in the VX though. I have the adjustable Ranchos and I wouldnt bother. No matter what setting I have them on, they still feel quite the same, IMO.

Best of luck to ya. Hope you find a positive solution.

Hate to see a vehicle let go because of a physical injury. But best to have your back in a comfort zone than to pamper a vehicle, heh.

[etlsport]

Didnt we have a few members sell their VXs some time ago with this same complaint? Damn shame, and I simply wouldnt understand since I dont have back issues. But ya, the best options would be those already mentioned. I have yet to come across a shock that REALLY dampens the ride in the VX though. I have the adjustable Ranchos and I wouldnt bother. No matter what setting I have them on, they still feel quite the same, IMO.

Best of luck to ya. Hope you find a positive solution.

Hate to see a vehicle let go because of a physical injury. But best to have your back in a comfort zone than to pamper a vehicle, heh.

i got flagged down by a guy maybe 6months ago who was telling me that he used to have a VX that he had to sell because it was too hard on his back, but he didnt mention anything about ever trying to correct the problem

[tom4bren]

found an interesting article on this subject.

http://www.drivers.com/article/295/

It indicates that we (VX drivers) are guilty of some of the most common sources of the problems

1. lots of vibration.

2. poor visibility

3. being overweight (except etlsport)

You're already looking at softening the ride so you're on the right track. Attack one source at a time until you get the results you're looking for. Keep this thread going so that continued input can possibly help others who are suffering too.

I had a leg injury some years ago that caused me problems on long drives. The solution ended up being quite simple. I found that putting the bucket down as far as possible gave me more support on the back of my legs which kept my leg from cramping up. There won't be one solution that works for everyone but trying out different things opens up the realm of possibilities & everyone benefits. The first thing to try is more lumbar support. Try putting a small pillow behind the small of your back. Better yet, are there any car seat covers that have memory foam inserts? Check out these guys:

http://www.comfortchannel.com/prod.itml/icOid/428

Kind of pricey but you can return it within 30 days if it doesn't work. Or:

http://www.ultimatebackstore.com/pro...ination%20Pack

[navistar]

At least the VX seats are very comfortable unlike the seats in my BMW.

I had lower back pain and pain all along my left hip and leg to where on long drives it would get painful and numb at the same time. My chiropractor told me to stop carrying my thick wallet in my left back pocket. In about a week all the pain was gone. I carry the wallet in my right front pocket now with no problem.

Navi

[circmand]

Apparently you never saw the episode of Seinfeld where George has the same problem.

[navistar]

You're right. I never watched it.

[JHarris1385]

I have a horrible back and my VX is very bouncy and it has never been an issue.

[rainee25]

I know a Great massage therapist!!!

[JULIAN911]

James,

I've had back surgery to remove the lower disks (both sides) so can relate to your pain. I put the Rancho 9000SX shocks on mine and have them on the softest setting and am pleased with the results.

Good luck!

[jamessmith]

You guys are awesome!! Well..I have not driven my baby in seven days,and that is so depressing.
Next week, I have an appointment with a Chiropractor, hopefully he can render me some relief.
I still have not decided what course of action to take, concerning my harsh suspension.
Maybe..I will just drive my baby once or twice monthly, thus keeping the mileage really low.
Have a wonderful weekend guys!!

[tom4bren]

Jimmy,

How's the back? Are you VX'n again?