BEFORE KYB:



AFTER KYB:



So the before image is with a blown strut on the stock suspension with 200k miles.

The after is with the KYB shocks installed in the front and back. With the same rubber, different rims. No spacers, all suspension lift.

It resulted in a significant lift and level for the front. I didn't bother measuring unfortunately. But that can give you a bit of an example of what you may get on your rig.

yes the kyb did add some lift to the front, mostly due to the 10% stiffer than stock new springs vs the 145k originals.

the lift from the KYB doesnt totally level the front but does raise it back to new height plus a little more. the pics above are a good estimate of the lift & here are a couple pics of mine (after & before) last year about 1000+ miles after the lift & it still looks & measures the same today so any settling is minimal & will happen in the first 500-1000 miles. same 265/70/17 tires & no other changes to suspension. stock rear springs.

if you want a true level i would suggest installing the kyb's without the front spacers to see how you like it after a couple months, then since its so easy to reinstall the spacers, do that if you want more lift.

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Thanks to both for the responses. I will install the new KYB front struts and remove the 1" DS. do mind confirming if the KYB's you installed on the front are these? I want to be sure it's the same one I found on line?

Is it the KYB Strut Plus

SR4130 & SR4131

UCA adjustable?

That's the pair I'm running good sir. You've got it!

YESSIR. I just was looking at my sr4130 on the driver side today.. seems like I got them reversed. I couldn't count any difference in coils or notice any height difference.. Maybe one is a stronger spring? I think when I take out the daystar lift this month, I'll swap them left/right

LOL, I'm probably the only one who likes to hear that the Toyota OEM shocks are floaty, yet comfortable (for the 4th gen). I have the XREAS and lately (I constantly change my mind) couldn't justify replacing it with another XREAS. I had billies on a former ZJ Jeep I had and couldn't stand it. I could run over a quarter and tell you the year it was minted, it was THAT stiff (to me). I heard KYBs are less stiff, but still on the hard side. When my XREAS shocks blow out (they were replaced several years ago with new XREAS shocks), I guess I'll settle for the OEM shocks.

yes those are the right number, but any reputable parts store should give you the correct part # based on the year 4runner you provide, & the 4wd are different than 2wd.

also be sure to install on the correct side, they will be marked L & R or the part# will designate L&R.

also the KYB are not really considered stiff or firm, just slightly (~10%) stiffer than stock SR5... XREAS provides a different feel & is firmer on corners etc, thats why poly sway bar bushings are a good upgrade to keep the 4runner from feeling top heavy on corners.

Kyb quick strut are far from firm for sure. A fair, smooth riding replacement I'd say

Good to know, thanks!

EDIT: I'm at about 175K on the clock, maybe my bushings "aren't doing so well".............. Pretty sure they are the originals.

I've beat the F out of my rig. These Bilsteins have lasted 3 years with 35's and HARD wheeling. They bent but didn't break!! Just got new ones this week- I don't think I'll do any other brand and I'd like to upgrade to the ones with remote reservoirs someday.

i replaced my xreas at 145k, they werent leaking but had a very poor ride although corner handling was still ok. after the kyb's, the overall ride improved a lot but i noticed the cornering firmness was gone, still totally acceptable & far better than many GM suvs ive ridden in but i will be adding the poly s/b bushings soon after reading some threads in here about them.

I also have the XREAS 2WD. On my fronts, it's very noticeable where clearance between fender edge and tire is like 3" but on rears it's like 6.5," and I'm wondering if my shocks are shot. I've attached pictures showing front shocks. The right side has more "sweating" than left. The ride feels balanced, but I'm relatively new to this truck and not sure what the norm is.

When I went on Amazon to search for KYBs, they showed shocks without the coils for my truck. Do I not need coils? Some websites show shocks and coil as a single unit. I also read somewhere that KYBs were stiffer than Bilsteins, which is not what this thread says.

I don't do any off road driving and no such plans. I need a comfortable ride that's composed and not bumpy! So if someone would advise as to what would work for my truck, or if I even need new shocks, I'd be very appreciative.

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Partial answer here.
I’m sure someone else can clarify with more details.
I also don’t know what other steps are involved with the XREAS system vs the normal suspension setup.

Yes, you need the springs/coils.
If you are wanting to keep a softer ride, I would buy the fronts without new springs (with the springs are called quick struts), and reuse your existing springs.
Many times the basic brand quick struts and premium coilovers come with stiffer springs than OEM.
Which will firm up the ride but can also improve handling/reduce body roll, it’s a trade off.
The quick struts do offer a slightly easier install, since they are completely assembled with new mounting hardware.

To reuse your existing springs you will need a set of spring compressors (around $40 at an auto parts store), and probably a new mounting hardware kit (unless your purchase comes with the mounting hardware) as you’ll likely want to replace the bushings.
Example of how to use the spring compressors here:
HOW TO COMPRESS STRUT SPRING - YouTube

Different brands offer different models of shocks (different characteristics), so that may be where some of the confusion is coming in on which brand offers firmer/softer ride.
I’m not sure what KYB and Bilstein off for the 4Runner.
But my son has been looking at some Bilstein’s for his 2008 BMW 328i.
There are several options/performance levels available from Bilstein for his car, firmer options offer better handling characteristics for “spirited” driving but also make the ride rougher.

I just checked fleabay for those XREAS shocks, and one dealer is asking $555 for both sides. It looks like shocks come with a few extra attachments, like a high pressure air hose. I'm wondering if I can get away with just buying only the shocks from Amazon and use existing hardware/ attachments? This would be much better for my budget. I'm wondering what others with the XREAS did. Here's the fleabay link for the overpriced OEM stuff.

Toyota 4runner 2003 - 2009 4wd Front Shocks Set W/ Reas Genuine OEM OE for sale online | eBay
https://www.ebay.com/p/656127736?iid...8aAnJcEALw_wcB