It is a modification, the OME gear is a different rating to OEM stock or aftermarket pattern replacements, you have installed higher spring rates and longer travel shocks onto stock mounts, that will now be working under more severe stress and at steeper angles than design. I think that ARB really should get off the fence. Sorry but I don't see this is Toyota's problem at all. I think your argument is with ARB, why didn't they explain to you the pro's & cons of not upgrading your UCA's?Even though I was fully aware that my warranty was void due to the "suspension being modified", which was Toyota`s statement I believe that it is a suspension upgrade verses a modification because the gear fitted is much more superior than the standard suspension. What I am more concerned about is that Toyota should be very concerned with this failure and that they should be investigation the cause of this problem and hopefully eliminating an event like this happening again. Next time the outcome may not be as lucky as I was!!