Upgrading the suspension on a 2000 Land Cruiser is one of the most effective ways to enhance off-road capability, towing stability, and overall ride quality. Icon Vehicle Dynamics offers a range of suspension components specifically designed for the 100 Series Land Cruiser, known for their durability and performance. This guide covers the main Icon parts available for the 2000 Land Cruiser, how they differ, and what to consider when choosing the right setup for your driving needs.
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ICON 2024-2025 TOYO Land Cruiser 250 Series/2024-2025 Lexuss GX550, Rear, 2 Lift, Dual Rate Coil Sp
Why Choose Icon for Your 2000 Land Cruiser?
Icon Vehicle Dynamics specializes in high-performance suspension systems for trucks and SUVs. Their parts are engineered for serious off-road use, with features like twin-tube or monotube shock design, external reservoirs for improved cooling, and adjustable damping. For the 2000 Land Cruiser, Icon offers solutions that increase wheel travel, improve articulation, and provide consistent damping in demanding terrain. The components are built to handle the weight of the Land Cruiser, especially when loaded with gear or towing.
Key Benefits of Icon Suspension
- Increased Ride Height: Gain 2.5–3 inches of lift for better ground clearance and approach angles.
- Enhanced Damping Control: Adjustable shocks allow tuning for on-road comfort or off-road stiffness.
- Durability: Hard anodized aluminum bodies and US-made components resist corrosion and wear.
- Articulation: Extended travel links and flexible bushings keep tires in contact with the ground.
Icon Suspension Parts Available for the 2000 Land Cruiser
Icon offers several product lines for the 100 Series, each tailored to different uses. Below are the main categories.
Icon Stage 1 vs Stage 2 vs Stage 3 Suspension
Understanding the stage system helps you choose the right level of performance for your driving style and budget.
Stage 1: Entry-Level Lift
Stage 1 kits include front coilover springs with pre-set damping and rear shocks with matching springs. They provide a 2.5-inch lift and improved on-road handling without breaking the bank. Best for daily drivers who occasionally hit mild trails or need extra clearance for larger tires (up to 33 inches).
Stage 2: Intermediate Upgrade
Stage 2 adds external reservoir shocks to the front and rear. The reservoirs help dissipate heat during prolonged off-road use, reducing fade. This stage also includes adjustable damping for fine-tuning. Ideal for overlanding and semi-frequent off-road trips with moderate loads.
Stage 3: Maximum Performance
Stage 3 kits include remote reservoir shocks with adjustable compression and rebound. They also feature Icon’s active damping system (ADS) for automatic adjustment based on terrain. This is the top-tier choice for heavy off-road use, rock crawling, or full-time expedition travel. Also accommodates up to 35-inch tires with proper trimming.
Front Suspension Components
Front Coilovers (ICON 100-Series)
Icon’s front coilover assemblies for the 2000 Land Cruiser replace the factory struts. They include an adjustable spring perch for ride height, 2.5-inch diameter shock body, and a forged 6061 aluminum lower mounting bracket. The spring rates are tuned to handle the heavy 4.7L V8 engine and front-heavy weight distribution.
Upper Control Arms (UCA)
To maintain proper alignment after a lift, Icon offers tubular upper control arms with greasable polyurethane bushings. They correct ball joint angle and camber, preventing tire wear and restoring steering response. Without UCAs, a 2.5-inch lift can cause alignment issues.
Rear Suspension Components
Rear Shocks
Icon rear shocks for the 2000 Land Cruiser are designed to work with the factory coil-spring rear suspension. Options include standard twin-tube shocks with an external reservoir (Stage 2) or remote reservoir monotube shocks (Stage 3). They are valved for the Land Cruiser’s weight and come with extended length for the lift.
Rear Coil Springs
Icon rear coil springs lift the vehicle 2.5 inches and are variable-rate for a balanced ride. They handle added weight from bumpers, drawers, or trailers without sagging. Paired with Icon’s extended travel bump stops, they prevent bottoming out.
Additional Components
Sway Bar End Links
Icon’s adjustable sway bar end links correct geometry after a lift. They prevent contact with driveline components and allow full suspension travel.
Track Bar (Panhard Bar) Correction
For the rear, a track bar relocation bracket or an adjustable track bar is needed to center the axle under the vehicle after lifting. Icon offers a heavy-duty adjustable track bar with high-angle ball joints.
Bump Stop Kits
Icon bump stops and relocation brackets keep the suspension from over-compressing. Essential for off-road use to protect shocks and springs.
How to Choose the Right Icon Setup for Your 2000 Land Cruiser
Choosing depends on your primary use, budget, and desire for adjustability.
Daily Driver with Light Off-Road
If you mainly drive on pavement but want a better look and occasional trail capability, the Stage 1 kit with Icon front coilovers and rear shocks is sufficient. Add the upper control arms for alignment. No external reservoirs needed.
Overlanding and Moderate Off-Road
For weekend trips and moderate trails, Stage 2 provides better heat management and damping adjustability. The external reservoir shocks reduce fade on bumpy roads. Pair with Icon rear springs and adjustable track bar.
Hardcore Off-Road or Rock Crawling
For serious rock crawling or heavy expedition loads, Stage 3 with remote reservoirs and ADS offers the most control and cooling. The automatic damping adjustment helps maintain traction in variable terrain. Full kit with UCAs, track bar, bump stops, and sway bar links recommended.
Tire and Wheel Considerations
A 2.5-inch Icon lift allows fitting 33x10.5R17 tires with minor trimming. For 35-inch tires, Stage 3 with additional trimming and possibly body mount relocation is necessary. Always check clearance at full suspension compression and steering lock.
Installation and Setup Tips
Proper installation and tuning are crucial for performance and safety.
- Alignment: After installing any lift, get a full alignment. Icon UCAs help achieve correct caster and camber.
- Torque Specs: Use a torque wrench on all suspension bolts. Icon provides specs in the instructions.
- Spring Perch Settings: Adjust coilover preload to achieve desired ride height. Icon recommends 0.5 inch of preload on front coilovers for most applications.
- Shock Damping: Start with factory recommended click settings (usually mid-range) and adjust based on feel.
- Driveline: With 2.5-inch lift, driveline angles remain acceptable. For higher lifts, consider a carrier bearing drop or double cardan driveshaft.
Maintenance and Longevity
Icon components are built to last but require regular inspection.
- Check Shock Oil: External reservoirs may develop leaks after extreme use. Rebuild kits are available.
- Lubricate Bushings: Greaseable UCAs and sway bar links should be greased every service.
- Inspect Bump Stops: Ensure they contact before shock bottoming out. Adjust if needed.
- Retorque Bolt: After the first 500 miles, retorque all suspension bolts to account for settling.
Practical Final Recommendation
For most owners of a 2000 Land Cruiser, the Icon Stage 2 suspension kit with upper control arms and adjustable track bar offers the best balance of performance and value. It provides a 2.5-inch lift, improved ride quality, and sufficient cooling for moderate off-road use. If you plan to carry heavy loads or tackle extreme terrain, invest in Stage 3 and the full set of supporting components (bump stops, sway bar links, and extended brake lines). Always purchase from authorized dealers to ensure warranty and genuine parts. Upgrading your suspension is a significant investment, but Icon’s engineering and quality make it worthwhile for enhancing your Land Cruiser’s capability.