Parts for your 1987 Mitsubishi Pajero-Coil springs

1987 Mitsubishi Pajero coil springs

Technical sources including the Mitsubishi Pajero/Montero L040/L141 Series Factory Service Manual (1982–1991) and Gregory’s Service and Repair Manual for Mitsubishi Pajero 1983–1991 note that the 1987 Pajero uses torsion bars at the front. At the rear, many long‑wheelbase (LWB) wagon models are coil‑sprung with a live axle, while numerous short‑wheelbase (SWB) and commercial variants use rear leaf springs. That means coil springs are relevant to 1987 Pajeros equipped with the coil‑sprung rear end, but not to front suspension or leaf‑sprung versions.

For coil‑equipped 1987 Pajeros, the rear coils carry the vehicle’s weight, set ride height, and help keep the tyres planted over corrugations, ruts, and towing loads. They work hand‑in‑hand with the shocks: coils support, shocks control the bounce. On rough Kiwi backroads or outback tracks, healthy coils mean better comfort, stability, and traction.

There’s no fixed replacement interval, but a quick look each service pays off. Check for sag (rear sitting low or uneven), cracked or flaking paint, pitting or rust, broken ends, and perished rubber isolators. If the back end bottoms out over speed humps, feels bouncy even with good shocks, or tilts to one side when unloaded, the springs could be tired. When replacing, do both sides as a pair to keep the stance level and handling predictable.

Before a change‑out, measure ride height on level ground with standard fuel and no cargo, then compare left to right. If towing or carrying gear often, consider springs matched to that duty cycle rather than cranking in spacers. Fit new upper and lower isolators if they’re squashed or noisy, and inspect bump stops and shock bushes while you’re in there. After installation, re‑check torque with the vehicle at normal ride height so the bushes aren’t pre‑loaded at full droop.

Corrosion is a common killer. A quick rinse after beach work and keeping caked mud off the coils slows rust. Pairing fresh coils with quality shocks restores control, worn shocks will flog new springs and vice versa. Finally, keep an eye on rear tyre wear patterns and handling after any suspension work—if it feels skittish or sits oddly, get it checked by a suspension specialist.

• Signs it’s time: rear sag, clunks, bottoming out, uneven stance, excessive bounce.
• Service tips: replace in pairs, renew isolators, inspect shocks and bump stops, torque at ride height.

FAQs

How can someone tell if their 1987 Pajero has rear coils or leaf springs?
They can have a quick look under the rear: coil‑sprung models have a round coil wrapped around the axle housing each side, leaf‑sprung models have stacked flat spring leaves running front‑to‑back. If still unsure, check the vehicle’s handbook or a Pajero workshop manual covering 1983–1991 models.

Should shocks be replaced when fitting new coil springs?
It’s smart money. Coils support the weight, shocks control motion. If the shocks are tired, new coils won’t feel right and can wear quicker. At the same time, check rubber isolators, shock bushes, and bump stops so the fresh setup isn’t let down by old consumables.

What ride height should a coil‑sprung 1987 Pajero sit at?
Ride height is specified in the factory manual and is measured at defined chassis points. Because tyres, accessories, and tow setups vary, it’s best to measure left‑to‑right consistency and compare to the manual’s method rather than guess by eye. If it’s low or uneven when unloaded, the coils may be tired.