08 V8 4x4 - El Camaleon Azul

lets hear it! Always ready for the insight.

Ill be pulling the front sway bar. Took it off both my other rigs and never thought twice about it.

did you install the 5th gen. Fox kit on the 4th gen? Im understanding that the reservoir bracket will require some modding. Aside from that, should be the same for the fronts.
please- feel free to post up some pics of what you encountered.

Removing your sway bar eliminates one of the problems. The lower spring perches of those coilovers DO interfere with the front sway bar. Even with the sway bar mounting relocation brackets. Specifically the threaded stud of the end link which protrudes inward at each end of the bar. I opted to keep my sway bar and worked around it by doing the following. I bent the sway bar ends out by 5/8" from end to end for more clearance at each end. Added a split collar between the driver's side sway bar locating collar and the sway bar mount to keep the sway bar from sliding laterally in the mounts. Basically locking the position of the bar from left to right. And I ground the sway bar end link studs flush with the nuts.

My kit was ordered for the 4th Gen, however I believe the part numbers are identical for both 4th and 5th gen application of these coilovers. I can tell you that they look identical from the photo. Even the reservoir mounting brackets.

I had to enlarge one of the side holes on the driver's side reservoir bracket to get the bolt to pass through into the correct frame hole. Those bolts included for mounting the reservoir brackets will self-thread into the frame holes if you put them in with an impact gun.

I gather by looking at the pics that the previous owner may have encountered this next thing as well. Notice that there is finish damage at the adjustment holes on the pre-load collar and that one of them is adjusted further down than the other. It may be different in your case, but I'll tell you that spinning those collars to adjust the coilover height was an absolute *****. The tolerance between the threads on the shock body and the preload collar is extremely tight. In fact, I'd wager that the tolerances on the collar did not take into account surface build-up from the anodizing operation, and the resulting fit is much tighter than it should be.
One of the coilovers was MUCH more difficult to adjust than the other, and required that we put a set of spring compressors on to reduce friction in the threads. The spring compressor lugs also had to be ground down so that they'd fit between the relatively narrow coil spacing of the Fox spring. We used a LOT of anti-seize and a LOT of elbow grease to get mine adjusted. We backed the collar almost all the way up on the one side so that we could get good anti-seize coverage on the threads before really reefing on it to adjust back downward.
Mid way through, we learned a valuable lesson about which spanner hole to use when trying to adjust the pre-load collar. It's very important which spanner hole you engage on the collar, depending on which way you're trying to spin it. Depending on which side of the collar opening you're on, and which way you're trying to spin it, the action of the spanner pin will either be trying to "pry open" the collar, or "push closed" the collar around the shock body. You want to spin from the hole that will "open" the collar gap and reduce thread friction. This made a HUGE difference. It's a bit difficult to convey in words, and if you've adjusted coilovers like this before you may have discovered it on your own, but I can try to elaborate more if you want.

Placement/orientation of the reservoirs in those mounting brackets wasn't immediately obvious and I toyed around with it a bit before settling on clamping them where they're currently at on my rig. The hoses are also VERY stiff and manipulating the reservoir after mounting the coilover isn't the easiest thing, so that doesn't help. I can get a picture for you.

Other than that stuff it's pretty straight forward.
 
technically... i am spending $$ on yours

She's all yours now. I'm pretty sure I have a crack in one of my exhaust manifolds, which I really haven't heard about with the V6. URD may be getting a call about some headers if the ticking gets any worse. :eyebrows:
 
Other than that stuff it's pretty straight forward.

Awesome! All noted. thank you. :hatsoff:
I would love to see the orientation of your reservoir hoses/reservoirs. And i think i understand what you are saying about the collar.

We shall see just how i comprehend.

Looking forward to this stage of my build. Get to dig in and really check out the runner, get to clean up all that awful MO surface rust (Love you Jeff :) ) j/k- its not that bad, but I'm gonna give that underbelly a clean and coat for sure.
Then i get to bolt on a bunch of sweet gear- some i have been scabbing off of members here, others from some recent GB's, and some i got from some great vendors.
Then i get to get out and spin some tires and bash some metal!!!!! :gun5:
 
Awesome! All noted. thank you. :hatsoff:
I would love to see the orientation of your reservoir hoses/reservoirs. And i think i understand what you are saying about the collar.

We shall see just how i comprehend.

Looking forward to this stage of my build. Get to dig in and really check out the runner, get to clean up all that awful MO surface rust (Love you Jeff :) ) j/k- its not that bad, but I'm gonna give that underbelly a clean and coat for sure.
Then i get to bolt on a bunch of sweet gear- some i have been scabbing off of members here, others from some recent GB's, and some i got from some great vendors.
Then i get to get out and spin some tires and bash some metal!!!!! :gun5:

I'll get a pic of each side for you. The way that Fox arranged the hard fittings between the shock body and the reservoir leaves a little to be desired I think. Specifically the way the 90 degree elbow comes out of the reservoir body. I wasn't about to go cracking them loose to rearrange them though. I think it would have been better if they made the hose long enough to make a nice U shape that goes under the UCA then back up far enough so that you can mount the reservoir with the adjustment knobs facing up.

In fact, just looking at it this morning there's a VERY slight rub mark on the reservoir hose from my driver's dire rubbing a bit at full right steering lock. So I'll probably tweak the position of that one a little more.
 
Pics as promised.

Because of how the hose fittings and connections are arranged, the hose takes that weird shape as you move the reservoir into place. Pay attention to how far it bulges out below the UCA. Depending on how high you mount the reservoir and at what angle it sits when you tighten down the clamps, the hose may contact the inside wall of your tire. For some reason my driver's side tire was much closer than on the passenger side and would actually touch the hose at full right turn lock. I had to shift the reservoir down slightly to take some of the "bulge" out of that lower bend in the hose to gain tire clearances. Notice where the top of the reservoir is in relation to the clamp on the driver's side vs. the passenger side. Also, on both sides, the 90 degree fitting coming out of the reservoir has to be right up against the frame.

Because of the weird looking hose path, it looks like the hose may come into contact with the underside of the UCA, but at full suspension droop there is actually about 3/8" of clearance between them.

You'll want to verify this stuff on your own setup as well, as all trucks are probably a little bit different.

Passenger side Reservoir Mounting
piuvmof.jpg


Driver's side Reservoir Mounting
1PZR2VB.jpg


Another helpful thing to note is the ratio of adjustment from the actual tire to the coil-over. It's approximately 2:1. So if you adjust your coil-over preload collar down by .5 inches, then it raises the suspension height at that corner by 1 full inch.
 
Last edited:
Thankyou.

great visuals to work thru.

The part that made the reservoir mounting a bit of a mystery was that they show a graphic of how to mount the NON DSC reservoirs in the instructions. You look at that and think "oh piece of cake." But the hose outlet routing of the NON DSC resi's is different than the ones we have, to the point that it affects how/where they can be placed.

There's some more general information on my suspension install in this thread.

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/4th-gen-t4rs/217165-guys-gals-maybe-fox-adjustables-post-here.html
 
I know everyone loves a little ass!
So, heres a few teaser shots of my sweet rear end
Maybe once all these parts are piled up, i can start putting them into place :)

Rear lift will be achieved via a set of Toytec Superflex2.0HD springs. Picked these hardly used guys up off a member here for a good price. Thx [MENTION=130497]Wolf_Gang16[/MENTION]

DSC_1741_zpsouldsvqx.jpg~original


DSC_1742_zpso9mmqnnp.jpg~original


same ht. for both springs
DSC_1743_zpsoz1hshog.jpg~original


ICON 2.5 RR Shocks, made for a 5th gen., again from a local board member. Slipping on a set of shock boots to guard the shafts from gravel pitting.
And a nice set of TrailWorxFab Lower Link Armor to eliminate the link bracket massaging.
https://trailworxfab.com/product/fj-cruiser-rear-lower-link-armor/

DSC_1744_zps0bnch2yc.jpg~original

DSC_1745_zpss6rcf54z.jpg~original


Keeping my rear end tight with a beefed up set of links. Like doing lunges!
Grabbed some sexy ICON Billet lower links from a seconds sale ICON had. BIG AND BEEFY! Poly bushings on the frame side to keep it plush in the cab.
Brian from FrontRangeOffRoad has been building the BADDEST Toyota suspension and drivetrain Upgrades for decades now. HE has now found himself delving into the FJ/4th gen runner platforms!! and i gotta tell you, this is good news for us. Expect to see some AMAZING shit hitting the trails from them. And Ill be here putting it to the test as much as possible if i have anything to say about it.
Products - 2003-2009 4Runner - Front Range Off-Road Fabrication
My new FROR upper links/panhard 1.25"DOM and 7/8"heims

DSC_1740_zpsr6al9nqf.jpg~original
 
Last edited:
You are going all out! Nice to see the parts list coming together, and it will be great to see it all done. Very nice parts too. Looking forward to hearing how it rides once it is done.
 
Alright!
Finally got the official smog test done with a passing grade.

Was throwing codes and dash light xmas tree.

Hook up my Scanguage, it tells me its a PO456. minor evap leak. reset the gas cap cuz it seemed loose, cleared the codes and ran it thru its tests for 400 miles- codes returned!! so frustrating to take that long and then throw codes again. Took a minute to get codes figured out and then takes ridiculously long to reset the computer thru its drive tests it has to go thru.

This time Was getting these codes, along with the dash lighting up like an xmas tree:

IMG_3310_zpslhbzpaop.jpg~original


IMG_3311_zpst5e5cjrm.jpg~original



Scanguage II comes thru again.
If you don't have one, you should. Can read codes, clear codes, and tells you when the computer is ready again. and has tons of other features, as well as a digital dashboard with diagnostic measures you set. So easy to use. And can use it on allayer OBDII vehicles.

Cleared the codes. Replaced the most obvious first, after looking over all the vacuum lines for cracked hoses or loose connections
OEM Gas Cap. Cap i replaced had a very stiff gasket at the sealing surface.

IMG_3339_zpssklszc3j.jpg~original


took 200 miles to clear the system after the second reset.
Scanguage told me it was ready, so we went in.

IMG_3443_zpsnzxg5dfh.jpg~original


finally its mine, and legal in CALI


Took advantage of 20%off/free ship in our T4R forum GB Have em in my Tundra, they are amazing doing what they do.

IMG_3444_zpsqrhkirjz.jpg~original

IMG_3442_zpsnti9ycxc.jpg~original

IMG_3445_zpspiqqaqfa.jpg~original


Now that were smogged and fully registered, i can start hacking on this thing!!!
 
Last edited:
Nice job with the emissions. That can often be a scary proposition. I need new mats. The original rubber ones are worn out. I'll have to pick up new ones.

Speaking of Tundras, I'm keeping an eye out for a good used one. That is my favorite truck. Does your one handle the camper well? Many have recommended either a Ram Cummins or at least a Chevy 2500 truck with the bigger (6.0L, I think) V8 to handle a camper or tow one even.
 
Nice job with the emissions. That can often be a scary proposition. I need new mats. The original rubber ones are worn out. I'll have to pick up new ones.

Speaking of Tundras, I'm keeping an eye out for a good used one. That is my favorite truck. Does your one handle the camper well? Many have recommended either a Ram Cummins or at least a Chevy 2500 truck with the bigger (6.0L, I think) V8 to handle a camper or tow one even.

I love the Tundra. If you read thru my huge Thread on Expo, i cover a lot of its issues.
Load capacity is an issue on all 1500 trucks when your talking about carrying a camper. Know that you WILL exceed your rated carrying capacity on all camper choices. FACT.
That said, some carry better than others with simple upgrades, some don't. I think the Tundra carries loads exceptionally well with airbags. The truck has a silly huge rear axle and 10.5" gears, the drivetrain is solid.
Choosing the correct camper for you is very important. It has to make you happy and comfortable. We love our Northstar popup. It is loaded, but still nimble and low COG to take offroad. Some peeps need a much bigger camper, some are happy with the sparce offerings in 4WCampers. I have many friends of both persuasions.
If you find yourself heading towards bigger style camper, i would not even consider a 1500. Just get a 3500 and be done. Big is Big, know that you won't be out deep in the backcountry off anything but main dirt roads.

Towing-
My Tundra tows great! It sucks the gas, but tows excellent.

DSC_0002_zpscf426122.jpg~original


hope that helps some. feel free to ask any specific questions
 
Great picture. Thanks for the info. I'd rather go a bit light but some space and amenities would be nice (for the boss at home, so she can go too). That is why I am doing some research and saving in the meantime If I go used, the Tundra is my top choice. I'll have to beef it up for sure, and with airbags, it may end up being the top choice.

Unfortunately, domestic trucks (well, the Titan too) still cannot match the overall reliability of the Tundra. That keeps me going back to the Tundra. If I buy new, I'm a bit more at ease with the Chevy HD trucks and the Dodge Ram Cummins...at least I have warranty. Still...much to think about. I'll go find your thread on Expo. I have much to learn about this topic.
 
Brilliant threads. I spent 30 mins looking through but will go back to read more. I think I made it halfway through...maybe. :)

Good stuff...really makes me feel like buying a truck but am trying to not be impulsive. A 12-14 low-mileage Tundra could be perfect but people often pay too much for them and owe too much on them, around here anyway.
 
IMG_3447_zpswcfhiu2u.jpg~original


Now that smog is done :)
Installed an intake. Need all the Air i can harness living at 8000'
Love the AFE DryFlow Filters, have had one in my Tundra for a few years and they work excellent, no oil into the throttle body, a High quality filter that is easy to clean.
Underdog Racing Development
Pulls most of its air using the same OEM snorkel location out of fender well, has an addtl. opening into front of box for added air. Not sure id go as far as to call it a CAI, but thats what everyone like to call them
It LOOKS GOOD, SOUNDS nice, sucks AIR!!

IMG_3448_zpsd0gbuoci.jpg~original


leaves a little more room behind it than the OEM box for something fun :)

IMG_3450_zpskqeleswj.jpg~original


IMG_3449_zpsqhihr7ke.jpg~original


A little preventive maintenance while I'm playing with the intake:
Rutech Air Induction Pump Bypass Kit- a Plug-n-play solution

IMG_3451_zpsrnkoqyec.jpg~original


Read plenty about the 4.7 air induction system issues. The VVTI secondary air induction pump failures. Might as well not put myself thru the headache. Can be a simple annoying noise or check engine light/ codes thrown/limp modes, or the valves stick open and you can't start your rig without digging deep. No bueno.
Simple harness, plugs inline at the AFM sensor plug on airbox, took 30seconds to install. Didn't install the block-off plates as my valves never stuck open.
No changes noticed yet.
P1441,P1442, P1444, P1...- Solution Toyota engine codes ? Rutech Solutions

Changed out the Lead-Acid battery for something that won't throw nasty juice all over the place when your bouncing thru the desert :)
Group Buy discount was nice. I have one in our 5th gen and it is very nice. Absolutely direct fit.
Northstar 27F. Lots of JUICE- for cold starts and running accessories like our ARB Fridge.

IMG_3452_zpsypn9akv9.jpg~original


Used the OEM battery tiedowns mated with a steel battery tray from JEGS. perfect fit, durable and secure.

IMG_3446_zpsx8399uis.jpg~original


Todays projects all in place!

IMG_3453_zpse13xax1p.jpg~original
 
Alright!
Finally got the official smog test done with a passing grade.

Was throwing codes and dash light xmas tree.

Hook up my Scanguage, it tells me its a PO456. minor evap leak. reset the gas cap cuz it seemed loose, cleared the codes and ran it thru its tests for 400 miles- codes returned!! so frustrating to take that long and then throw codes again. Took a minute to get codes figured out and then takes ridiculously long to reset the computer thru its drive tests it has to go thru.

This time Was getting these codes, along with the dash lighting up like an xmas tree:

IMG_3310_zpslhbzpaop.jpg~original


IMG_3311_zpst5e5cjrm.jpg~original



Scanguage II comes thru again.
If you don't have one, you should. Can read codes, clear codes, and tells you when the computer is ready again. and has tons of other features, as well as a digital dashboard with diagnostic measures you set. So easy to use. And can use it on allayer OBDII vehicles.

Cleared the codes. Replaced the most obvious first, after looking over all the vacuum lines for cracked hoses or loose connections
OEM Gas Cap. Cap i replaced had a very stiff gasket at the sealing surface.

IMG_3339_zpssklszc3j.jpg~original


took 200 miles to clear the system after the second reset.
Scanguage told me it was ready, so we went in.

IMG_3443_zpsnzxg5dfh.jpg~original


finally its mine, and legal in CALI


Took advantage of 20%off/free ship in our T4R forum GB Have em in my Tundra, they are amazing doing what they do.

IMG_3444_zpsqrhkirjz.jpg~original

IMG_3442_zpsnti9ycxc.jpg~original

IMG_3445_zpspiqqaqfa.jpg~original


Now that were smogged and fully registered, i can start hacking on this thing!!!

The gas cap that was on your truck when I bought it was not OEM and it had the same issue. Replaced it with OEM right at 2 years ago. You would think it would last longer than that. :noidea:
 

Members online

Forum statistics

Threads
278,316
Messages
3,554,111
Members
248,016
Latest member
Advally Service

Trending content

Back
Top