2002 4Runner - Suspension Question

[jonfasch]

Loaded Front Struts - So I'm seeing a bunch of options of loaded struts on Amazon for less than $200 for the pair. Are there any recommendations on which brand to buy? I think I'd want to install the full assembly myself, so I wouldn't have to mess with compressing that spring.

 

[phattyduck]

Question again...

What is easier to change?
1. Front Struts
2. Rear Shocks

My feel is the Front Struts... but I'm hoping the fronts come preinstalled somehow with that Spring. I'm just not sure how I'm going to get to that top rear shock nut to get it off with 331,000 miles on them.

Rear shocks are highly depending on environment. An offset box wrench will be your friend if things aren't rusted:

Also, technically the front is also a shock - just with a coilover spring design.

Loaded Front Struts - So I'm seeing a bunch of options of loaded struts on Amazon for less than $200 for the pair. Are there any recommendations on which brand to buy? I think I'd want to install the full assembly myself, so I wouldn't have to mess with compressing that spring.

None of the amazon/etc. pre-loaded shocks will be of any decent quality. Spring compressors aren't really that bad to use (you aren't working on high spring rate 2.5" body shocks) and you can rent them for free with tool loaner programs from your local auto parts stores.

-Charlie

 

[Bad Luck]

Loaded Front Struts - So I'm seeing a bunch of options of loaded struts on Amazon for less than $200 for the pair. Are there any recommendations on which brand to buy? I think I'd want to install the full assembly myself, so I wouldn't have to mess with compressing that spring.

Any of the loaded front struts on Amazon will be garbage. If you don't feel comfortable using a spring compressor call a few automotive shops and see what they would charge you to disassemble your old front struts and assemble new ones. You'd have to bring the old struts to them along with the new struts.

 

[jonfasch]

Answering and asking a few questions from the previous couple posts…

1. Living in Wisconsin, rear shocks have never been changed, 331,000 miles – there’s lots of rust…
2. What’s a good brand of front shocks to buy? And do I buy new springs as well – or use the old ones?

 

[spartacus]

Answering and asking a few questions from the previous couple posts…

1. Living in Wisconsin, rear shocks have never been changed, 331,000 miles – there’s lots of rust…
2. What’s a good brand of front shocks to buy? And do I buy new springs as well – or use the old ones?

If your front end is bouncy or rusted only then change them out with 99 springs. Front springs rarely go bad. Bilstein hd 4600 would be a good affordable stock ride height option if you can find them in stock somehow. Most cost effective would be take off Billys on CL or fb market place. Ebay with free shipping. Total automotive performance a vendor here might be able to help.
Edit: Sawzall cut on the rear shock rod under the rear metal washer just below the bushing.

 

[Sarki]

Answering and asking a few questions from the previous couple posts…

1. Living in Wisconsin, rear shocks have never been changed, 331,000 miles – there’s lots of rust…
2. What’s a good brand of front shocks to buy? And do I buy new springs as well – or use the old ones?

I have a rust belt 02 4TR with 200K miles so I feel your pain.
When I updated my front suspension I went with KYB shocks, factory OEM replacement front springs and KYB top mounts.
One of my front springs was cracked so replaced both. Also replaced rear shocks with KYB, no issues to date and very satisfied.
I purchased a spring compressor from Amazon and found it to be and easy job with no issues. Just soak all hardware with penetrating oil such as Kroil or your favorite product beginning a week or so before tackling the install.
Below is the spring compressor set I purchased.
I used it when installing the rear springs as well though it really wasn’t necessary.