01 4runner shock, struts, ball joints

[da324]

Hi,
I know this has probably been discussed a thousand times here, but I'm finding that most of the threads are related to off road performance where shocks, struts, and ball joints are concerned. I recently acquired a 2001 4runner with 186k from my sister and it's in superb condition. She has service records for most things, but never replaced the shocks/struts and ball joints. The ball joints are not degrading at all, but I figure they're 20 years old and should be changed with the struts and shocks (will probably do the sway bars and tie rods too). The ride is not bad at all, but when I hit big bumps I can feel a jolt and a slight shake in the steering wheel I'm a DYI person, Toyota gave me a price of 600+ dollars for one strut, not playing that game. So, what brands can I use that won't break the bank, but are still very good quality? This vehicle is never going off road, per say, as it isn't FWD. It's a city/hwy dweller that I just want to keep as stock as possible where parts like this are concerned. So, I'm sure many of you can point me in the right directions for OEM replacements that give me a good ride while not sacrificing quality. Thanks for any help!

 

[Ghostrider]

Not jumping in the rec for shocks - there are lots of threads and many are non off road topics. Ball Joints - OEM only. 600 for a strut is out of mind territory. I'm about to do mine when Covid drops down and got a quote of a little over 200 for labor from a shop. Nothing difficult about the rears except rust and then you use sawsall.

 

[spartacus]

Hi,
I know this has probably been discussed a thousand times here, but I'm finding that most of the threads are related to off road performance where shocks, struts, and ball joints are concerned. I recently acquired a 2001 4runner with 186k from my sister and it's in superb condition. She has service records for most things, but never replaced the shocks/struts and ball joints. The ball joints are not degrading at all, but I figure they're 20 years old and should be changed with the struts and shocks (will probably do the sway bars and tie rods too). The ride is not bad at all, but when I hit big bumps I can feel a jolt and a slight shake in the steering wheel I'm a DYI person, Toyota gave me a price of 600+ dollars for one strut, not playing that game. So, what brands can I use that won't break the bank, but are still very good quality? This vehicle is never going off road, per say, as it isn't FWD. It's a city/hwy dweller that I just want to keep as stock as possible where parts like this are concerned. So, I'm sure many of you can point me in the right directions for OEM replacements that give me a good ride while not sacrificing quality. Thanks for any help!

Oem ball joints for sure also get the new oem bolts. energy suspension steering rack bushing, sway bar bushings front and back. Bilstein HD 4600 aré good shocks and about $250 for all 4 corners, kyb havé gpod reviews.. keep the front springs and if you have the rear sag then replace the rears with 99 talls or moogs .
lots of info on this forum just'Google it

 

[spartacus]

you can do the shock swap your self lots of videos on line. Get the front springs put on the shocks by a shop or in some cases like wheelers etc can assemble the strut for you. The rest is easy with simple tools.and a torque wrench.

 

[96RedRunner]

That milage OE LBJ's for sure, all the springs have that milage I'd replace all four.
Going with OE springs you'll get 150+k miles worth the dollars to me, you don't get that with aftermarket.
Keeping it stock height lotta folks like 99 Tall springs, Strut/Shock I like Spartacus's rec with Billy HD 4600's lotta folks go that route.

Good link!!
3rd Gen 4Runner Lift Information and FAQ's - Toyota 4Runner Forum - Largest 4Runner Forum
The 99 Highlander Springs
If you want a small lift or have worn out springs, a good option might be to change out your springs for springs from the 1999 4Runner Highlander Edition. these springs sat 1" higher than any other 3rd Gen 4Runner. They can be ordered online or at a Toyota dealer.

99 spring part numbers:

Front Passenger Side Springs - Blue / Yellow (48131-35400)
Front Driver Side Springs - Blue / Pink (48131 - 35350)
Both Rear Springs - Yellow / Red (48231 - 35210)

Since you DIY, the struts can be assembled on the Runner on jackstands using a floor jack.
Just assembled/installed Bilstein 6112's, No need to pay or use compressors for assembly.

Edit: Radiator; Original Change it, if plastic is brown colored change it.

 

[Sarki]

Bought my 02 with 180K miles on it and did the same basic refresh you’re looking to do.
I went with Toyota factory springs all around and KYB shocks/struts front & rear.
Also replaced stabilizer end links with OEM parts front & rear.
I use mine as my DD with no off-roading and the ride is fantastic, no regrets at all.

 

[da324]

Oem ball joints for sure also get the new oem bolts. energy suspension steering rack bushing, sway bar bushings front and back. Bilstein HD 4600 aré good shocks and about $250 for all 4 corners, kyb havé gpod reviews.. keep the front springs and if you have the rear sag then replace the rears with 99 talls or moogs .
lots of info on this forum just'Google it

Thanks, I've heard about the energy suspension bushings. Are they as good as they claim, is there a noticeable difference in the handling?

 

[da324]

Bought my 02 with 180K miles on it and did the same basic refresh you’re looking to do.
I went with Toyota factory springs all around and KYB shocks/struts front & rear.
Also replaced stabilizer end links with OEM parts front & rear.
I use mine as my DD with no off-roading and the ride is fantastic, no regrets at all.

Thanks for the input, I'm seriously looking into those KYB's.

 

[da324]

That milage OE LBJ's for sure, all the springs have that milage I'd replace all four.
Going with OE springs you'll get 150+k miles worth the dollars to me, you don't get that with aftermarket.
Keeping it stock height lotta folks like 99 Tall springs, Strut/Shock I like Spartacus's rec with Billy HD 4600's lotta folks go that route.

Good link!!
3rd Gen 4Runner Lift Information and FAQ's - Toyota 4Runner Forum - Largest 4Runner Forum
The 99 Highlander Springs
If you want a small lift or have worn out springs, a good option might be to change out your springs for springs from the 1999 4Runner Highlander Edition. these springs sat 1" higher than any other 3rd Gen 4Runner. They can be ordered online or at a Toyota dealer.

99 spring part numbers:

Front Passenger Side Springs - Blue / Yellow (48131-35400)
Front Driver Side Springs - Blue / Pink (48131 - 35350)
Both Rear Springs - Yellow / Red (48231 - 35210)

Since you DIY, the struts can be assembled on the Runner on jackstands using a floor jack.
Just assembled/installed Bilstein 6112's, No need to pay or use compressors for assembly.

Edit: Radiator; Original Change it, if plastic is brown colored change it.

Thanks for the valuable info. My ride actually feels great other than the occasional rut. It sits nice and level and doesn't have a drop of rust on it. That's one of only few good reasons to live in Florida. However, it is 20 years old and I plan on keeping it until one of us dies. Thanks again!

 

[spartacus]

Thanks, I've heard about the energy suspension bushings. Are they as good as they claim, is there a noticeable difference in the handling?

They are better then after market rubber bushings' cost less then oem and do a pretty good job of tightening everything up. But I like oem just my preference. .

 

[96RedRunner]

I've heard about the energy suspension bushings. Are they as good as they claim ?

I use ES bushings for swaybars and links, steering rack, OE for any control arm.
Stay away from anything that is Doorman brand.

At 198k mi my Runner springs would hit bump stops, sat lower than it should, sounds like what you have going on.