I was initially looking at Bilstein 4600 or 5100s for my 08 4Runner with 317k miles. However, I just came across a used complete set off a 22 4Runner with low miles.

The set includes complete front strut assemblies, front upper control arms, rear springs and shocks. I believe all will fit with the exception of the rears. From my understanding the 5th gen rear shocks use larger bolts and will not fit the 4th gen. If so, I assume all other parts would work except the rear shocks.

I assume having new springs all around and new upper control arms would be nice regardless if mine don't seem to have any issues.

Assuming the rear shocks can't be used, does this seem like a good idea to replace the entire front strut assemblies and upper control arms as opposed to just replacing the front shocks?

Of course this assumes I can actually purchase this used set.



Thoughts?

So theres a few other threads on here about the swap.

front lower strut mount needs to be wider to accommodate a 5th gen strut. Most people grind down the front low bushing - but youll need power tools like an angle grinder or sanding belt

The rear frame needs a little wider hole for the bushing/ bolt between the shock itself and the frame. if you bore this out/ enlarge it, youll have to always use a 5th gen strut.

The coils are easily compatible and will you a very slight lift.

I wouldnt pay more than $100 for this. A lot of people throw them away/ give all their take offs for free. Despite Toyotas reliability, theres not a big market for suspension take offs.

If theres an off road community near you/ face book group etc usually theres plenty of people upgrading

Thanks for the info.

I have a few additional questions.

1) If I did get a set of the front coils (5th gen springs and shocks), would you put on the upper control arms or is it not worth dong so?

2) If did go with the coils above, what rear shocks could I get to compliment the OEM fronts? Bilstein 4600s?

3) Would the overall stance change at all? Assuming the 5th gen would lift up the front a bit, would this level out the truck or would the front sit higher than the rear after?

thanks!

1. Installing new upper control arms along with the front struts can improve handling and suspension performance, even if your current ones seem okay. It could make your driving experience smoother.
2. If you go for the 5th generation front coils and pair them with Bilstein 4600 rear shocks, it should make your ride better both on and off the road. They work well together to give you a balanced ride with improved comfort.
3. As for the stance, yes, the front might lift a little with the 5th gen coils, but it shouldn't tilt too much. However, exact changes can depend on load and driving conditions. But you can check the height after installing them to make sure it's how you want it.

Thanks. I need to figure out what a fair price would be for the complete front coils and upper control arms.

Also, I can't seem to find 4600s for the rear anywhere. Neither Amazon or Rock Auto seem to have them. Rock Auto only has 4600s for the front.

In regards to the rear suspension, I wonder if the rear springs themselves are compatible with the 4th gen? I am not going to mess with 5th gen rear shocks. I have no desire to grind and drill to make them fit.

I picked up 5th gen trd or suspension for free. I’m gonna throw on a RC lift kit while I’m at it. The kit comes with replacement rear shocks and front strut spacer. This way, I don’t need to make a permanent modification to the chassis. My question is if I will need extended swaybar end links.