I have a 2003 4Runner Limited (V8) with about 160k miles (260k km) and the XREAS shock system Although I do not notice any fluid coming from any of the shocks my family complains at how rough the ride is. I suppose at this age/mileage new shocks are likely required. I took to Toyota - they suggested replacement of front 2 shocks. When I heard the price I was somewhat astounded (and thats only replacing 2). After some online reading it seems that many 4Runner owners replace these XREAS shocks with something more traditional when replacement time comes around. In particular, I came across a writeup at shockwarehouse (Toyota 4-Runner X-REAS Shocks - Shockwarehouse.com where the recommended replacement is Bilstein 4600's with new KYB mounts. I have also noticed on this site people talking about the Bilstein 5100's.

If the 5100's are better in some way then I would go that route. What I am wondering though is about the springs. While doing this replacement (or having someone else do it for me), should I be replacing any springs at same time (front and/or back) given their age. If so, should I be looking to replace like for like or is there an advantage to going with another spring. I have read about some of you putting FJ springs on (the back?). I just want to make sure I have a good ride (I don't really do any offroading) but at the same time don't mind upgrading my vehicle a bit if it makes sense. Also, I wouldn't mind a modest raise to even things up. I do run standard size tires on the truck.

What do you experts recommend for me? Also, are there other suspension components that would benefit from replacement at this age of vehicle while someone is doing this work?

I responded to your thread on the other forum.

Xreas suspension replacement alternatives? | Toyota 4Runner Forum [4Runners.com]

I don't think it's the same person.
The other guy has a 2005 and lives in Alaska.
But...your link is still valuable all the same.

OP, I have a 2003 and just this year I swapped out the xreas with Bilstein 4600's.
I kept the original springs, and am completely happy with the superior ride and handling.
Love the way it feels, just with a 4600 all-round swap.
I already had a 3-2 spacer lift done to it years ago tho, so that part was already done.
I could be wrong, but it feels perfect for what I want out of it.
If I increased the springs, I think it might wind up being over-firm.
For the time, I'm glad I just did the shocks, they made enough difference for me w/o over-doing it in the firmness dept.

Oops, yeah, you are right. My bad.

lots of threads on this subject here & one just recently. if you dont do much off roading i suggest to keep it simple & cost effective... remove the xreas & install KYB front & rear shocks. the fronts come with new springs & hardware & will add a little bit of lift to the front to match the rear better. & the KYB's are the same exact part # for the FJ's.

if the rear isnt sagging i would keep the stock springs & just add the new shocks. nothing wrong with bilstein but the 5100 are more for off road & lifting & many street guys say they are too harsh or stiff for street use but that depends on the person. for a good street ride closer to stock but a tad stiffer i would go with KYB, rockauto usually has the lowest price & there may be a rebate from KYB.

heres the recent thread, has pics of my 4runner & another members showing how they sit after the KYB.

KYB Excel-G or Bilstein?

I'm kinda in the same boat as you but my XREAS still rides really good. The truck has 173k on it though so I'm thinking ahead on what I'm going to replace it with.

I did the KYB Assemblies and just the rear shocks on a 2008 Limited with 170,000 miles. Rides nice and ended up with about a 1.5 in lift up front, leveled it off.

Ordered through Rock Auto and there was a KYB Rebate at the time. Certainly was worth it to keep it pretty stock.