I've been searching and reading like crazy, but can't seem to find the info I'm looking for.

Do you need a spring compressor to install 5100s?

I've done a coil spacer leveling kit on a 2006 F250 and a top of the strut spacer leveling kit on a 2007 GMC Sierra in my driveway by myself with normal tools.

I can't seem to find a write up or video on the installation. I just want to make sure I know what I'm getting into. The GMC front suspension is a pretty similar setup to the 4Runner and it was quite a bit of work to get the strut out.

If using a spacer I prefer the type that bolt to the top of the strut without taking it apart and removing the coil spring. Like this: 2005-2015 Toyota Tacoma-4Runner-FJ Cruiser 1-1/2 inch Level kit [TT250F] - $102.95 : Auto Spring Corporation, Idaho's Largest Inventory of Auto and Truck Springs.
So that looks pretty straight forward for about $100.

Another $100 or so gets me a set of 5100s which seems like the way to go...unless I need to drag the strut to a shop and have them swap the coils to the new shocks before reinstalling... Then I've got more tune money and hassle.

I appreciate the expertise!

when you can get front 5100's for 214 shipped or the full set for 349, its really a no brainer. Add the daystar rear spacer for 40 bucks and you have a hell of a lift for under 400 dollars. No spring compressor needed. I just did the full install in 3 hours a few days ago.

If you have kdss it will be a lot more time to install.

No KDSS.

You can do it quick then. I used a spring compressor... You can rent them from autozone... actually they just loan them to you. I wouldn't want that shock top shooting out. It's really just for peace of mind.

who sells the full set for 350?

Look up the Antman no spring compressor install. You dont NEED a spring compressor. There's a video of it done on a Tacoma on YouTube as well.

I ordered a set of 5100s off EBay then got a message about them being backordered 2-4 weeks. If you know of some, please post up some suppliers that have them, preferably that take PayPal. They were $210 shipped off EBay but I don't really want to wait a month.

I got mine from amazon from a place that listed them in stock, you just have to look around. Bilstein had a machine down for a while. I used the no spring compressor method and it was quite easy, just follow the instructions and be careful.

single shock rear
http://www.amazon.com/Bilstein-33-18...2833-187174%29

single front
http://www.amazon.com/Bilstein-24-19...ords=24-196499

http://www.4wheelparts.com/Lift-Kits..._AMAN=Bilstein

$291 for set of 4 with free shipping.

I had a good experience with Autoanything on the Bilsteins. They were the lowest at the time, plus they price match I think it was for one year if you find them elsewhere cheaper. Plus they were in stock.

Toyota 4-Runner Front Bilstein 5100 Ride Height Adjustable Shocks 2010-2014 w/ Optional Rear Shocks

I ordered them last week and they shipped out the next day. I had them coast to coast in 5 days. IDK if they are a vendor here but are pretty large on tacomaworld, or used be at least.

have you bought these? I wonder if they switcharoo the price once you order...

Technical Details

Buy now with confidence. A service rep will contact you to confirm fitment before your order ships. If you modified your vehicle, well ensure you receive the correct shock application
Bilstein 5100 Series Shock Set
Includes Set of 4 Shocks
Strut and Ride Height Adjustable Application Prices Are Slightly Higher.

Thanks for all the info!

I found a great price here and plenty in stock... $187 shipped for two fronts.

Bilstein 24-196499 Truck & Off Road - 5100 Series Shocks. Autoplicity.com | Discount Performance and OEM Auto Parts, 100% In Stock

They also have the rears and the daystar rear spacers for great prices.

What about on a Limited? Im just looking into leveling out the stance. From what I understand the XREAS system is a pain and not just as simple as swapping over to 5100's.

Would that spacer kit in the link on the 1st post be a solid option?