1998 Suspension Question

[JackBauer]

Hey guys.

I have a friend with a 1998 4Runner with a rear suspension problem. (She LOVES it) I have read about rear end sag, but with so many years, different generations... Well it is hard to get comments on that specific year and what really to be concerned about.

Hopefully someone can help me with some answers:

1) What types of problems should be expected after 9 years? I don't have mileage info right now... Is it likely to be just shock absorbers, or something more significant?

2) I don't think it is severe yet. I noticed it on her truck but she didn't notice it yet. Is there a point (measurement from the ground) where it becomes a real issue?

3) Any safety concerns with it remaining like it is? (Again not that bad, but I did notice it - something just didn't look right, to me it is relatively obvious)

Thanks guys. I appreciate your help.

Joe

 

[dirtydeeds]

Have your friend check about a recall on the springs.I had a '98 a few years ago that didn't sag at all,however there was a recall on the rear springs.After mine were replaced I gained at least an inch.I think it was more of a safety issue.Have the dealer run VIN to see if they were ever replaced.

 

[JackBauer]

Thanks.

I just did a search for recalls and only found one for electrical (lighting)...

Are some recalls unpublished or something?

I'm trying to do as much as possible for my friend - she is quite busy and can use my help... (I'd rather confirm more before asking her to go write down her VIN, for me to check with the dealer...)

Thanks again!

 

[nserpa9248]

what "problems" are you having with the rear end of the truck?

If it is "sagging" replace the springs..it helps

Otherwise, let us know and we can help better

-nick

 

[JackBauer]

what "problems" are you having with the rear end of the truck?

If it is "sagging" replace the springs..it helps

Otherwise, let us know and we can help better

Hello Rick!

Thanks for the reply.

I guess at this point I am on a fact-finding mission.

I wanted to understand what was likely the problem... Yes it is sagging - but not by a huge amount... She didn't notice it herself, but it is there. So if that is only an issue of replacing springs... (And I understand no one can know for sure until someone looks at it)

Since she is in grad school - and money is probably tight, I'm trying to understand the significance of the problem...

1) Is it a safety issue or only a cosmetic / handling issue? (She's not bothered by either at this point)

2) What are some typical costs for having someone (dealer or independent shop) to replace the springs? (E.g, is it a big deal, or a relatively small cost)

Thanks again guys...

Joe

 

[Mr. Dabadina]

I have a '96 4runner and it had a rear coil spring recall w/obviously no cost to me. I don't know if its the cheapest you can find but I believe 4wd rear springs at toyotapartsales.com are around $70 bucks/spring plus delivery. I don't know how much it is to have them installed but atleast its a starting point. But I would run her vin# since I had a recall on mine, it would be worth the effort.

The handling issue is kinda a safety issue as well. If I remember right they did roll over tests of SUV's years ago w/the 3rd gen 4runner being in the upper half on the bad side. But it is an SUV and if you don't drive it like a sports car than it shouldn't be to bad.

 

[JackBauer]

Ok dumb question - do all 1998 4Runners use rear coil springs?

 

[dirtydeeds]

Ok dumb question - do all 1998 4Runners use rear coil springs?

All 3rd gens use rear coils.