Having this same problem. In fact my mechanic down here in Texas is having the problem. He spent 2 hours trying to take the first strut off today (it's a northern truck) without any luck. Did you try applying eat or anything? Would be interested to know how you managed to get the plate off.
Mine failed in a pretty spectacular way at 115k miles. Was on the highway doing about 80 mph. Hit a pot hole - and instead of just "absorb" the bump, truck went crazy and nearly flipped.
Problem now is finding a decent suspension to replace the XREAS with given all the 5100 Bilsteins (rears)...
I just ordered them from Down South http://downsouthmotorsports.com/c-353277-toyota-bilstein-5100-series-shocks.html . Found that site via another thread on this forum.
Had previously ordered through Tire Rack, but was notified they were on backorder after I submitted the order.
Thinking of putting these on my '06 4Runner. Confused about whether or not I'll need lift spacers in the rear to keep the lift consistent. Do you happen to know if outside the kit you need any other parts?
