Michelin Tyres
Michelin Tyres
Founded in 1889, the Michelin Group provides tyres to over 170 countries. The Michelin Group makes tyres locally for your specific needs and road conditions.
“Performance made to last” epitomizes MICHELIN’s innovative spirit: it is the fruit of thousands of hours of research and rigorous testing.
Michelin experts have conducted countless test drives in the most extreme conditions to ensure that their products’ performance stays high over time for a safe and more enjoyable ride in the long run. Ensuring excellent longevity with high levels of performance, from the first kilometre to the last.
Tyre options are regularly updated, please contact our sale team for availability and options.
Falken Tyres
Falken is a flagship brand of high-performance radial tyres which was founded in Japan. For over three decades its name has represented dynamism, performance and natural elegance. Falken is a high-profile brand focusing on delivering quality products through continual innovation and has become an Official Original Equipment (OEM) choice for many leading global automobile brands.
Tyre options are regularly updated, please contact our sale team for availability and options.
Toyo Tyres
Toyo Tires enables you to move better; their Japanese roots gives you the latest in mobility both on and off the road. But that’s just the beginning.
What Toyo really does is empower you to move confidently to new and bigger things, to make a change for the better. Just ask those who have. You see, tyres are not just a part of your vehicle. They believe that what you put on the outside of your car, matters to those on the inside. This is why they make tyres for drivers, not cars.
Tyre options are regularly updated, please contact our sale team for availability and options.
KMC
KMC is redefining performance on and off the asphalt since 1982. With innovating styles and relentless pursuit to confront possibility. KMC wheels are designed for the barrier breaking, game-changing individuals who defy conventional thinking in motorsports and use machines to pull off the impossible. It all started with a wheel, not a vision. not a plan. Just a simple, well-made wheel.
Options are available for four-wheel drives in various sizes and fitment, there is nearly too many to choose from!
Wheel design and availability is constantly changing, for more information please contact our sales team to discuss options.
TSW Wheels
TSW Wheels Perth
TSW Wheels are available from Wilkinson Suspension!
Cast and Flow Formed wheels are available in various sizes and finishes to perfectly compliment your vehicle!
Contact the team for more information on what is compatible with your vehicle!
Wheel design and availability is constantly changing, for more information please contact our sales team to discuss options.
American Racing
American Racing Wheels Perth
Since their industry defining introduction in 1956, American Racing wheels have been a leader in automotive performance, style, and culture. From dominance on the track to bravado on the street, there has been one constant: they’re never idling. With decades of heritage in American motorsports have made us the household name you know and trust. Meticulously crafted to offer an abundance of performance, with enthusiasts at their core.
Wheel design and availability is constantly changing, for more information please contact our sales team to discuss options.
Black Rhino
Black Rhino Hard Alloys are available from Wilkinson Suspension!
Available to suit four-wheel drives and SUV’s you’ll be spoilt for choice with their range.
Cast, Flow Formed, Monoblack Forged and Beadlock options in various sizes and finishes are available to suit four-wheel drives and SUV models, you’ll be spoilt for choice with Black Rhino Wheels!
Wheel design and availability is constantly changing, for more information please contact our sales team to discuss options.
Coilovers Perth
Are you looking to buy or install coilovers in Perth? Our friendly team of suspension experts can help!
Here at Wilkinson Suspension Centre, we have extensive experience with installing and setting up coilovers for both everyday vehicles and dedicated track cars.
Send us your coilover enquiry today via our Contact Form, or give us a call on (08) 9370 2646.
For more information about coilovers, we have put together this comprehensive page. Keep reading to find out what coilovers are exactly, why you should get them and how they will benefit your vehicle.
To top it off, we’ve listed some of the most frequently asked questions we’ve heard about coilovers!
The word coilover is an abbreviation for ‘coil spring over shock absorber’ which is exactly the construction of a coilover. Most commonly an aftermarket “coilover kit” offers ride height adjustability through threaded adjustable spring seats.
A coilover suspension system works in the same manner as a conventional strut and coil spring suspension. The spring takes the load or weight whilst the shock absorber controls the motion of the spring.
A good quality coilover will be designed specifically for the vehicle with extensive testing performed on both the spring and shock absorber to achieve seamless performance.
Additionally, an aftermarket coilover kit will feature one or more adjustability options depending on the brand or type of coilover kit.
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Adjustable coilover kits are designed with a threaded shock body to allow the spring seat to be adjusted up or down the shock absorber body. This adjusts the position of the spring in order to change the ride height, suspension droop, compression travel and in some cases spring preload.
Damping adjustable coilover kits are designed with an external dial or ‘key’ to allow adjustment of the shocks internal valving. A coilover kit can feature either independent compression and rebound adjustment or combined compression and rebound adjustment, depending on the application.
This feature allows drivers to fine-tune the ride quality, counter understeer or oversteer and alter the handling characteristics which is ideal for track use.
Whether you want to improve your vehicle’s looks, attend the occasional track day or have a dedicated race car, a coilover kit can be selected to match your needs.
Height adjustments achieved with coilovers do not only allow drivers to lower the vehicle’s ride height just for looks. In fact, they also lower the vehicle’s centre of gravity which contributes to a sportier feel.
Lowering a vehicle with a lowered spring kit reduces the vehicle’s suspension travel, which in some cases can be a limiting factor in terms of the amount the vehicle can be lowered by. When using a coilover, the shock absorber length is reduced to suit a lowered ride height range allowing additional scope for the ride height to be decreased.
If applicable, damping adjustment allows the driver or engineer to fine-tune the handling characteristics such as reducing body roll, changing the way the vehicle weight transfers and altering understeer or oversteer.
Manufactured in Germany, KW Coilovers can be found at the high end of the product range with kit options that are commonly used in motorsport. KW products are often seen at the gruelling Bathurst 12hr which is a testament to their quality, longevity and superior construction.You can find more information about KW Coilovers on our KW Suspension page.
Derived from the KW Brand, ST Coilovers are a versatile option for everyday driving or occasional track use. They can be a great option for those who are looking to improve their vehicle for everyday use and for aesthetic purposes without blowing the budget. ST offer up to 3 variants allowing you to select the kit that suits your budget and needs.For more information about ST Coilovers, please visit our ST Suspension page.
Manufactured in Germany to the highest level of safety and quality, Bilstein coilover kits are available to suit street, track or motorsport applications. Utilising their gas pressure technology and mono-tube/upside down technology Bilstein have been perfecting their coilover range for over 50 years. Combined with quality sport springs made from highly durable material and a long-lasting corrosion resistance coating all ensure a quality finish and longevity.For more information about Bilstein products, please visit our Bilstein suspension page.
With options to suit street, track and ultimate high performance requirements, H&R coilovers have got all areas covered! Each coilover shock is custom-valved to work in conjunction with a precision-engineered progressive rate spring, creating a finely tuned suspension system. The fully threaded shock body allows for adjustable vehicle height. This feature helps balance vehicle weight, resulting in a lower center of gravity and improved performance and control.More information can be found on our H&R Coilovers page.
Shock Absorbers Perth
Are you in the market for a set of shock absorbers and want to make sure you get the best bang for your buck?
Whether you need front shocks, rear shocks, or both, our friendly team of suspension experts has years of experience recommending and installing high-quality shock absorbers to suit anything from your everyday passenger sedan, off-road 4WDs, SUVs and even race cars.
We created this comprehensive page with answers to frequently asked questions so you can learn more about aftermarket shock absorbers and make the best decision for your vehicle!
What is a Shock Absorber?
A shock absorber is an integral part of the suspension system. It is essentially a hydraulic pump-like device that is designed to dampen the impact of shock impulses in order to control the vehicle’s motion.
A shock absorber serves the purpose of reducing excessive suspension movement as it dampens spring oscillations.
How do Shock Absorbers work?
Shock absorbers vary depending on the manufacturer and design, however, the principals are the same.
When you’re driving your car, a piston rod moves up and down against a hydraulic liquid inside the tube design of a shock.
As the piston travels up and down, it forces the hydraulic liquid through a valve. Only a small amount of liquid can travel through the valve’s tiny holes, which slows down the movement of the piston, effectively reducing the impact of shock impulses.
WHICH TYPES OF SHOCK ABSORBERS ARE THERE?
All shock absorbers are designed to achieve the goal described above (reduce the impact of shock impulses in order to control a vehicle’s motion), but different manufacturers use alternative design methods. The common designs are:
Mono-tube Shocks
As the name suggests, these shocks components are all contained within one tube. The body or case of the shock is the “Working chamber”. Within that chamber is the piston valve, oil, and gas. A mono-tube shock absorber utilizes a free piston which separates the oil chamber from the gas chamber within the shock body.
Twin-tube Shocks
This design features an outer reservoir tube and an inner pressure tube filled with oil. As the piston moves up and down inside the pressure tube the oil is forced through the piston head and foot valve. The Foot Valve controls the flow of oil through the inner and outer tube.
Nitro Gas Shocks
Nitrogen Gas shocks use gas pressure to reduce the formation of bubbles caused by forcing hydraulic liquid through the valve.
FOAM CELL SHOCKS
Foam cell shocks use sheets of foam to capture these bubbles. Manufacturers such as Tough Dog employ the use of a Foam Cell Insert in the outer tube to prevent bubbles forming in the oil which is the leading cause of shock fade.
ADJUSTABLE SHOCKS (DAMPING)
An adjustable shock means you have the ability to make adjustments to the damping forces. In most cases the rebound (extension stroke) and compression (downward stroke) are adjusted together, adjusting the unit softer allows the piston rod to move more freely which reduces the shock control, adjusting the unit firmer slows the movement of the piston rod down which increases the shock control.
High-end Race type shock applications usually feature independent rebound and compression adjustability for maximum control over the handling behaviour of the vehicle. Allowing the driver or engineer to fine-tune the handling characteristics such as reducing body roll, changing the way the vehicle weight transfers, reducing understeer or oversteer.
Off-Road and 4WD adjustable applications usually feature rebound & compression damping adjustment together to allow the driver to make adjustments based on the terrain. If the vehicle is attacking slow speed “rock crawling” the vehicle is using maximum articulation it’s important to have the tyre make contact with the ground as quick as possible to get that all-important grip, softening the shock will assist with this. If the vehicle is travelling quickly over corrugations the shock requires more dampening control so the shock would be adjusted harder.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
A good shock absorber is all about using the right tool for the job!
After 30 years in the automotive suspension industry, we’ve established a platform of trusted brands. We have built a rapport with these manufacturers and worked with them to provide feedback in order to provide a better service and product to our loyal customers.
With this in mind, we have the ability to provide product advice and guidance based on our customers’ requirements.
Feel free to give us a call on 08 9370 2646 to discuss options for your vehicle!
We understand that price is an important factor when getting work done or replacing parts on your vehicle. The good news is that we offer brands that cater to those on a budget and those who are wanting to spend a bit more on premium or specialty products.
Prices will depend on the vehicle model, brand choice and shock type.
Our installation fees depend on the labour involved which is specific to the vehicle, it’s suspension set up and the type of shock absorber.
Please contact us for a personalised quote.
We always recommend getting your suspension fitted by a professional.
Here at Wilkinson Suspension, our team of qualified mechanics are on hand to install your new suspension parts and complete a wheel alignment.
Contact us for an obligation-free installation quote through the Enquiry Form, call us on (08) 9370 2646 or drop in at our custom-built suspension workshop in Bayswater, Perth.
Let us take care of the hard work!
If you’ve noticed a lack of ride comfort or stability when driving, it could be due to worn out shocks!
To check the shock absorbers on your vehicle, try the bounce test. If the vehicle oscillates more than once after downward pressure is applied to either end of the vehicle, this would signify the shocks are worn out.
Other signs to look out for:
- Leaking fluid on the exterior of the shock body
- Diminished ride comfort over bumps or uneven surfaces
- Lack of stability driving around bends and body roll
- Uneven tyre wear
Lift Kits Perth
Are you looking to purchase a lift kit but aren’t sure where to start? Or do you want to read up on the benefits before you buy?
The team at Wilkinson Suspension created this comprehensive page to use as a guide for those who are looking to make an informed decision when it comes to purchasing a lift kit for your 4WD!
Keep reading to find out what a lift kit is exactly, what the most popular reasons are to get one and how a lift kit can improve the off-road capabilities and load-carrying abilities of your 4WD.
Also on this page, you’ll get an exclusive insight into our experts’ shortlist of most frequently asked questions in order to bust some of the common myths around lift kits and suspension in general.
If you still have questions, you’re more than welcome to get in touch through our Enquiry Form. We’re happy to help!
A lift kit is essentially a package of carefully assembled suspension components designed to fit a specific vehicle in order to increase ride height, gain wheel travel, improve load-carrying and enhance the overall suspension performance.
Most lift kits include raised coil or leaf springs paired with long-travel shocks & various other fitting components required to complete the suspension kit & installation.
Ride height increase and components vary depending on the vehicle’s setup, vehicle’s suitability and limits for suspension modifications.
Most applications will allow up to 2” (50mm) Lift and for a more extreme off-road setup 3” (75mm) and 4” (100mm) lift kits are available for certain vehicles.
Which benefits a lift kit unlocks for you will depend on your own unique driving conditions and vehicle setup. Let’s dive a bit deeper into some of the most popular reasons why we have installed suspension lift kits in the past.
First and foremost, it’s called a lift kit because by raising the suspension it effectively elevates the main body of a vehicle, increasing the clearance between the underbody and ground.
The higher a vehicle is raised relative to the road surface, the easier it will be for it to clear obstacles on challenging terrains.
Elevated ride height also gives the opportunity to install bigger tyres due to additional room in the wheel arches the lift kit has provided, which in turn gains even more ground clearance.
Not to forget how much better a lift-kit-raised vehicle looks! At least we think so, and a lot of people seem to agree. The perfect cosmetic makeover for your ride, what better way than a lift kit and a big set of tyres to help your vehicle stand out in a crowd.
Depending on the style of work you have planned for your 4 wheel drive, carefully selecting the correct suspension components within the lift kit is important. These components work closely together to better absorb bumps and maintain vehicle stability.
This significantly minimises any of the turbulence you may experience when driving in some of the more challenging conditions that come with Australia’s rugged terrain. Not to mention how much stress the suspension, especially the shock absorbers are under when tackling the corrugations meaning the correct choices won’t let you down and leave you stranded.
Accessories such as bullbars, winches, canopies, tool boxes, spare wheel carriers, draw systems and other camping or work gear all add weight to a vehicle.
When these heavy accessories are fitted you may notice your vehicle is ‘dragging its behind’ or has a ‘nose down’ appearance.
With the correct spring selection within a lift kit it can help restore lost ride height and improve load carrying capabilities.
Wheel travel is the distance the wheel & tyre assembly travels vertically both up & down. The suspension’s job, despite the terrain is designed to keep the vehicle as level as possible whilst keeping the wheel in contact with the road.
When installing a lift kit, it generally consists of longer travel shock absorbers that will gain additional wheel travel. The deeper the ruts or the bigger the rocks are it increases the chances of having wheels off the ground resulting in loss of traction and the potential of getting stuck! With additional wheel travel, these issues are dramatically reduced.
Your vehicle’s factory suspension may simply not cut it for the conditions and terrains in which you plan to tackle.
Whether it’s lack of ground clearance, uncontrolled bounce or load carrying, the absence of quality, high-performance suspension components may be causing more harm than good to your vehicle.
If any of these issues sound familiar, it may be a good idea to consult a suspension professional.
In comparison to just a pair of shocks or springs, a lift kit offers ‘the full package’, delivering optimum balance, increased ride height and off-road capability.
Frequently asked questions
When choosing a lift kit, the most important thing is to consider what the main purpose for the lift kit is. Are you looking to increase ride height, improve driving comfort, or solve an existing suspension issue?
When you have established the purpose for the lift kit, you can have a think about preferred lift height and your budget, considering both product cost and installation.
Contact our suspension professionals for personalised help with selecting a lift kit that’s right for you and booking in your vehicle for installation.
In Australia, lift heights are usually measured in inches or millimetres.
There are two ways to measure the ride height of your vehicle before and after install. Park the vehicle on flat ground and follow one of the below methods.
- Measure from the centre of the hub to the lip of the guard.
- Measure from the bottom of the rim to the lip of the guard.
Most applications will allow up to 2” Lift and for a more extreme off-road setup 3” and 4” lift kits are available for certain vehicles.
Please note that actual heights can vary due to the vehicle’s age and condition, additional weight and other various factors.
Your best bet is to contact a professional suspension specialist.
Here at Wilkinson Suspension, we have extensive experience installing lift kits.
Contact us for an obligation-free installation quote, call us on (08) 9370 2646 or drop in at our custom-built suspension workshop in Bayswater, Perth.
Lift kit costs depend on a variety of factors:
- Vehicle Make/Model
- Brand of suspension parts
- Type of suspension upgrade
- What style of work you plan to use the vehicle for
For a detailed quote based on your vehicle and requirements, please contact us.
Lift kit costs range from as little as $420 to an average of $2000 depending on whether it’s for cosmetic purposes or genuine off-road capabilities.
Our installation fees depend on the labour involved which is specific to the vehicle, its suspension setup and the style of lift kit.
Our installation fees start at as little as $330 for a basic setup.
We always recommend getting your suspension fitted by a professional.
Our team of qualified mechanics are on-hand to install your new suspension lift kit and complete a wheel alignment.
Let us take care of the hard work!
