My old as gold LS430(2002 model) has been superb for the last 3 years in which I have driven about 55k miles with absolutely no issues.
However after returning after a month long trip and on starting the car I can see that the rear end has sunk alarmingly, with only a few inches left between the ground and the exhaust.
And on driving, it was as though the rear air suspension has given up the ghost.

Trouble is my mechanic is a good 70 miles away.

Does any forum members know what is the worst that could happen, if I gingerly and in the middle of the night(to avoid traffic) very carefully drive the car to my mechanics place.

As it looks like the suspension is already shot, he would have to replace it,however would I be doing more damage to the car by attempting to drive it there.

Any thoughts or opinions around this on what I should be doing, please post.

Thanks
John

 

As long as the tires aren't rubbing, it should be fine to drive it to your mechanic. I've seen enough older Lincoln Town Cars driving around with the rear bumper at almost ground level to think it wouldn't matter for a short ride like that.

One thing though - if the compressor is still running and trying to pump air into the shocks, you probably want to pull the fuse if you can, otherwise the compressor could burn out.

 

You might want to disconnect the arms of both ride height sensors to avoid damaging them and adding considerably to the over all cost of repair.

 

Here is part no for replacement
https://www.ebay.com/itm/GENUINE-LEX...-/163251133368

 

I would have the car towed. Anything that got broken because you drove the car, it most likely will be more expensive than the towing charge.

 

Thank you GrahamG for that suggestion.Wondering if it is a simple matter to disconnect the ride height sensors.
The fuse I can pull out so hopefully that should prevent further damage to the compressor.
Wonder what further damage is possible by driving , hopefully it wont wreck the whole suspension.

Think an option would be to just fit normal non air shocks/suspension instead of the Air suspension system, as its less prone to further issues?

 

John

I have a brand new in-the-box right rear air shock Arnott and a left rear with about 300 miles on it that are for sale. I paid $890 each and will sell them both for $890. I'll pay the shipping and half the cost of the tow.

Please contact me at my work - email walter@brownra.com cell 404-374-5106

Walter Miller

 

Hi Walter,
Im in the UK and so it would be easier to obtain something locally.
Also the mechanic has not been able to identify which part is defective whether it is the air compressor or the actual rear shocks

 

Update-Thank you for your advice to get a tow truck
Which I did,however the muppet managed to crush part of the rear bumper in the process of transporting it, and he has no insurance.
Maybe I will have to get another LS430 or maybe an earlier model LS460

 

John

Thanks for the reply - good luck.

Walter