The-Acre

These are the original ones and the new (with centre caps not yet fitted properly)

Amazing what you can find. We have a neighbour who owns a 51 plate Nissan Micra which has less than 9,000 on the clock, I think I've seen her move it twice in all those years!

I haven't done it before with compound, it really got lots of the swirl marks out, I also used a clay bar recently. I think if you use a DA polisher and the correct pads it's fairly safe. A new member put the wheels up for sale last week and I was considering slightly more modern ones anyway. Although mine is a facelift it doesn't have the five spoke wheels, rather an in-between version of the two models. They're ready to fit now, just waiting for new tyres on Wednesday. The good thing is the original Toyota centre caps fit so I can keep it Toyota!

Mercedes air suspension is actually every bit as unreliable, as is Jaguar, Audi, Range Rover and others. Personally I don't think Lexus air suspension is all that unreliable. As is often said, we only read about the problems which can make us believe they're all cursed. And I don't think it's unreasonable to expect these problems with cars being 15-20 years old.

Good result hopefully. Can you maybe post some more photos, it may help someone along the line.

Go for it....you know you want to! Anyway, where's the fun in being sensible when it comes to cars?

I can't see how a failed compressor would cause the car to drop.

Yes, Rockauto. Actually I think replacing air shocks is easier, or at least as easy as changing conventional ones. They seem fine anyway. Keep us posted.

Listening for the compressor constantly running will give you a clue as to whether the strut is leaking. I doubt both have gone at the same time though. A height sensor failing can cause it to bottom like that, you need to get it up in the air to check it out. The sensors can be taken apart, cleaned and refitted if you're careful. Remember the struts have an outer rubber cover, this cover has a split in it from new so that's not an indication of the air bag having blown. Should you need to replace them don't be put off by horror stories of how difficult it is, it isn't. I replaced all four on mine with new Arnott struts from the US, total with shipping 2.4k!

I've been meaning to do this for ages. I ordered some new polishing pads for my DA machine, and Maguire's compound, polish and wax. Still hard work, and the photos don't do it justice but it certainly sparkles for a 17 year old. Next week I'll be fitting the newly acquired wheels when the tyres arrive so I'll post some more photos then.

When all is said and done the convicted criminal from Dudley needs to constantly be exposed for what he is. He's been convicted more than once of selling cars in a dangerous, non roadworthy condition. He's even sold one to a forum member, who unlike many others managed to get his money back. Let's keep track of him in the hope we can help prevent others falling into his trap.

Very nice! I've just had my new machine polishing pads delivered so if it's not to sunny today I'm going to get stuck in!

Have you tried Lexus parts direct who advertise on this forum? They're a main dealer.

I've not come across this before, couldn't the original springs just be bent slightly? It could even be the caliper pins.

Old Baz actually contacted me after he acquired my car, he really does just like to play around with them. He's a really nice man and far from being some dodgy dealer, unlike our Dudley fellow! Just as well euthanasia isn't available for the over fifties (or anyone for that matter) otherwise I'd have been posting from beyond the grave for years!

That's the one! He said it's the best he's had!

Old Baz ended up with my last LS430, a gent really!

How long have you got?!

Well spotted! And what a shame as it's a great looking car!

If you find something put a link on here as some may know its past.

Lexus chap, jaguar guy/chap Lexus legend. Trading from Dudley. Just checked, Jaguarbloke

I don't know if this means anything but it's the only numbers they have. The tensioner is Japanese NSK 6006DW18. The idler, again made in Japan, Koyo 63/28RR9D. The belt is Gates made in the USA and I didn't take the pump out of the wrapper as the gaskets and new bolts are together with it but again it says Gates WP0185. It all means nowt to me!

eBay, Parts in Motion £181 free 24 delivery.

If only every company was as good. I ordered the Gates cambelt kit for my Celsior at 4pm yesterday, delivered today at 11.15am.

Much of its life as far away from the sea as you can get! Poxy road salt then!