How silly would it be for me to remove the crappy no-name brand rear springs the previous owner of my 4R put in, and put factory (or drop in replacement) air bags back in? I'm not 100% on the scope of work needed to make that happen, but at minimum bags and sensors. The air compressor is still in, and the only reason I'm considering this, is because I hear it run occasionally. The 'tank' is also still mounted to the frame, but it looks like some of the air lines were just cut and they don't look like a standard connector. I'm not opposed on the surface for additional headache from the added complexity of the RAS. However, it seems like it would be nice to have on the off chance I end up needing to pull something.
4th Gen Suspension Options/FAQ
- Thread starter ARK_SWAMP_RIDER
- Start date
4runner4camping
New member
I'm seeing information about Tacoma takeoffs being plug and play for 06+ 4runners. What do I do if mine is a 2003? Do I have to buy specialized parts or can I fab the Tacoma takeoffs?
Bluesky 07
Senior Member
I hope someone can answer this because I’m curious too. I always thought the 3rd Gen Tacoma (‘16 up) front coilovers bolt right on for all 4th Gens but I have an ‘07 so that’s the limit of my knowledge. Tacoma rear shocks need new bushings (easy to do) but again, I only know about ’06 and up. Suspension link in my thread has more info.
05RedRunner
New member
Lift
So i have 5100's with OME 2885 on the front and stock springs with spacers on the rear, but when i hookup my trailer it has a lot on sag. which spring on the rear would help fix this issue?
So i have 5100's with OME 2885 on the front and stock springs with spacers on the rear, but when i hookup my trailer it has a lot on sag. which spring on the rear would help fix this issue?
Shank2015
Member
Looking to replace my X-REAS.
Purchased:
OEM 3rd Gen Tacoma UCA's
OEM 3rd Gen Tacoma front Coil/Strut
OEM 3rd Gen Tacoma Rear shocks and correct bushings
Since my suspension likely has all 231k miles the 4runner has, I'm thinking of replacing the rear springs as well.
Loosely thinking between FJ Springs (any recommendations on brand)? or something in the 1" to 1.5" lift range. This will be mostly driven unloaded as a daily driver. Hoping to eventually more to 265/70/17's.
Any suggestions for rear springs?
Purchased:
OEM 3rd Gen Tacoma UCA's
OEM 3rd Gen Tacoma front Coil/Strut
OEM 3rd Gen Tacoma Rear shocks and correct bushings
Since my suspension likely has all 231k miles the 4runner has, I'm thinking of replacing the rear springs as well.
Loosely thinking between FJ Springs (any recommendations on brand)? or something in the 1" to 1.5" lift range. This will be mostly driven unloaded as a daily driver. Hoping to eventually more to 265/70/17's.
Any suggestions for rear springs?
Bluesky 07
Senior Member
Yes, do it for at least two reasons, 1) at 231K, the OEM springs are at least 14 years old (you didn't say what year you have) and have carried a 4,500 lb. SUV the equivalent of 9+ times around the world; and 2) if you don't, you'll be driving around wondering what the ride would be like if you had.
I used the Tacoma setup with FJ springs on my '07 Sport for many years and it was great (suspension post is linked in my sig). You can see the look height-wise in the pics I posted for somebody else a few posts above. I eventually went to Eibach a couple of years ago b/c I got some amazing deals on the components.
Shank2015
Member
Absolutely. 07 Sport. I'm trying to figure out the best aftermarket springs as I don't plan to use OEM take off's.
Bluesky 07
Senior Member
I'm very happy with my Eibach springs. Solid product, great customer service, and the truck is fun to drive on and off road. They do have a disclaimer on their rear springs but can it really be true?
"Must be used with Eibach Pro-Truck Sport Rear Shocks."
Or what? I have the shocks and they're...well, shocks, there's nothing fundamentally different from any other shock I've had. Am I missing something? This strikes me as how manufacturers say, "Always service your vehicle with genuine Toyota parts." Maybe they won't honor the warranty otherwise? If anyone has any insight on why the Eibach statement could possibly be accurate, please chime in.
Last edited:
Shank2015
Member
I can't imagine it would matter.
I ended up ordering 1.5" Bilstein springs, we shall see.
stevelikesrhino
New member
*Most* mfgs say that to let you buy their shocks. However, in very few cases they do have a point. Here's an example:
The lightest OME rear spring has 260 lbf/in spring rate (that's about 45% higher than stock rate), and most other aftermarket entry level shocks don't quite have enough damping for them. For example, 5100 rear is really tuned for stock-ish spring rate, so around 200lb is the sweet spot. Even with lightest OME springs 5100 is simply not enough to dampen them over speedbumps, deep dips, etc. It will make your car more bouncy in some cases, even though 5100 can give higher damping force compared to stock shocks.
The whole "you have to get our shocks to run our springs" is very situational, but not just marketing trick. I think Tacoma shocks are probably fine for Eibach springs, since they usually don't deviate too much from stock rate or they would clearly mark them. That's just something you might consider before getting new springs. BTW OME front coils are only about 10-20% heavier than stock, which is ok for most stock replacement front shocks.
The lightest OME rear spring has 260 lbf/in spring rate (that's about 45% higher than stock rate), and most other aftermarket entry level shocks don't quite have enough damping for them. For example, 5100 rear is really tuned for stock-ish spring rate, so around 200lb is the sweet spot. Even with lightest OME springs 5100 is simply not enough to dampen them over speedbumps, deep dips, etc. It will make your car more bouncy in some cases, even though 5100 can give higher damping force compared to stock shocks.
The whole "you have to get our shocks to run our springs" is very situational, but not just marketing trick. I think Tacoma shocks are probably fine for Eibach springs, since they usually don't deviate too much from stock rate or they would clearly mark them. That's just something you might consider before getting new springs. BTW OME front coils are only about 10-20% heavier than stock, which is ok for most stock replacement front shocks.
Bigshankhank
New member
I'm certain its been discussed before but I am wrapping up my research on a 3" lift (probably from Toytec but maybe OME) for my 4WD V6 and need one final piece of information; Is it worth it to get HD springs on the rear?
I don't have any additional weight like bumpers or a roof rack, but I tow rather frequently with my Runner, usually no more than 1-2000lbs but often over long distances (1000 miles or more) with camping gear, motorcycles, golf cart, as well as local deliveries of plywood and lumber etc. for my construction work. So while I am pretty much stock weight normally its not uncommon for me to add tongue weight on the back end, and a bumper & rack are on my radar for upgrades in the next 2 years. I don't do a lot of dedicated off-roading except on construction sites but my current stock-height shocks are worn out and if I'm going to replace them anyway I might as well lift it ya know?
Thanks for the feedback.
I don't have any additional weight like bumpers or a roof rack, but I tow rather frequently with my Runner, usually no more than 1-2000lbs but often over long distances (1000 miles or more) with camping gear, motorcycles, golf cart, as well as local deliveries of plywood and lumber etc. for my construction work. So while I am pretty much stock weight normally its not uncommon for me to add tongue weight on the back end, and a bumper & rack are on my radar for upgrades in the next 2 years. I don't do a lot of dedicated off-roading except on construction sites but my current stock-height shocks are worn out and if I'm going to replace them anyway I might as well lift it ya know?
Thanks for the feedback.
Jason B
Official Vendor
I'm a dealer for OME, Eibach, Dobinson, etc. Eibach and Dobinson I've had great luck with. If anyone is considering these, Call/text me at 717-319-2100 and I'll do what I can to help.
Also, if you're looking for a budget setup, the spacer lifts I've done for years are another option if you don't want to replace everything:
Burtman Industries 4th gen 4Runner lifts
On sale right now
Also, if you're looking for a budget setup, the spacer lifts I've done for years are another option if you don't want to replace everything:
Burtman Industries 4th gen 4Runner lifts
On sale right now
Last edited:
knightsfs4
New member
I've been running an Icon Stage 1 lift for my 4Runner for the past few years.
I've been hearing good things about the new OME lift, and Dobbinsons.
From anyone coming from an Icon lift, what differences have you noticed?
From anyone running an OME or Dobbinsons lift, how do you like them and which one did you get?
I'll be grabbing a new lift in the next month, so I'm doing my research before I pull the trigger.
I've been hearing good things about the new OME lift, and Dobbinsons.
From anyone coming from an Icon lift, what differences have you noticed?
From anyone running an OME or Dobbinsons lift, how do you like them and which one did you get?
I'll be grabbing a new lift in the next month, so I'm doing my research before I pull the trigger.
If you're not planning on installing a rear steel bumper with tire carrier and/or roof rack with tent then you should, IMO, go with medium springs. I did go with HD front and back on mine but I do carry a lot including full camping build-out in the trunk plus steel bumper with swing outs for tire carrier, hi-lift, etc.. Without any additional weight front or back the ride is horrible. Stiff as heck.
Eibach Stage 2 Kit
Anyone have experience with the stage 2 set. I'm just seeing them on the Eibach website and TEQ Customs. Only two places I've seen them. Wondering if they are worth the extra $ over the Stage 1 kit. I've been reading all these threads trying to decide on Eibach vs. Bilstein, which I know is a common discussion.
Anyone have experience with the stage 2 set. I'm just seeing them on the Eibach website and TEQ Customs. Only two places I've seen them. Wondering if they are worth the extra $ over the Stage 1 kit. I've been reading all these threads trying to decide on Eibach vs. Bilstein, which I know is a common discussion.
Lastbest4thgen
New member
4Runner to FJ swap question
Hey, everyone, I found a good deal on what appears to be most of the suspension parts from a 2007 FJ but the description is a little vague so I want to make sure it will all work on my 4Runner (2005 Limited V8 with X-REAS). They already sold the rear coil springs but everything else looks OK and the seller calls the parts "OEM". Can anyone ID the parts by sight?
Hey, everyone, I found a good deal on what appears to be most of the suspension parts from a 2007 FJ but the description is a little vague so I want to make sure it will all work on my 4Runner (2005 Limited V8 with X-REAS). They already sold the rear coil springs but everything else looks OK and the seller calls the parts "OEM". Can anyone ID the parts by sight?
Attachments
Two questions...appreciate any advice....
In a few weeks I'm removing the Xreas system on my '08 Limited V8 and replacing with Bilstein 5100s in the front and 4600s in the rear...keeping the rear airbags as they're working great and in very good condition. I'm planning on raising/leveling the front to notch 1 (.85) but I'm reading where a lot of people have chosen notch 3 (1.75). Does the fact that I'm keeping the airbags instead of swapping out for springs make one setting more "level" than the other? I'm seeing a lot of people's opinions but not many with the airbags. I'm aiming for a "stock" but more level stance.
I'm also looking to replace my worn out OEM 18" wheels with 17" (17x7) TRD wheels. The offest on these is 4mm vs the 18"s 25mm. Here's where I get a bit confused. In the guide above the 265/70R17* (31.6x10.4) show that they will likely require the removal of the front mud flaps. Am I to assume this is due to their .4" (10.16mm) greater width than the 255/75R17 (32 x 10)? If I'm switching to the TRD wheels that have a 4mm offset does this create even more rubbing issues or less, due to the "wider" stance of the 4mm? I really do not want to "trim" or modify the wheel well or remove mud flaps but it's challenging to order things in advance for the project without knowing for sure. I've never swapped out wheels or suspensions on any vehicle before so I'm learning on the fly.
Again...any advice/help is appreciated.
Last edited:
Bluesky 07, Thanks for your input on all things 4th gen.
I just got one a few weeks ago. '03 SR5 V8 w/ 170k.
One of the first things I'm doing is replacing the CV axles. While I've got it apart, I am going to do some other wear items like brakes and suspension. I picked up some new Tru Drive (off brand?) 2015 Tacoma coilovers on FBMP for cheap. I'm thinking of using 3rd gen Taco UCAs also. I’ll probably go ahead and replace anything that gets touched. I'll do rear soon but later.
My questions for anyone are as follows:
1. Does the above sound directionally correct?
2. Anyone got a good list of parts that have to be loosened? Seems like a good time to do tie rod ends, links, bushings, etc.
3. I’ve seen enough on this truck to believe new hardware might be appropriate. Anyone know of any premade kit or an existing list of nuts and bolts? Sizes? Link?
4. Keeping budget in mind, what is the most plug and play for rear shock/spring if towing is more important than lift?
This one will be my daily while my 1st gen undergoes powerplant reassignment. It identifies as diesel.[emoji6]
Until then, I want a comfortable, leveled out, truck that is refreshed over 21 year old OE.
I'll start threads in the appropriate forums on both builds.
Thanks KG
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
Last edited:
Bluesky 07
Senior Member
[MENTION=246512]GoodieKey[/MENTION] You’re very welcome. 1AAuto/TRQ has a massive playlist of instructional videos for the 4th Gen on YouTube. They make solid parts at great prices too. I have their LCAs and coil packs plus a set of tie rods awaiting installation.
Last edited:
Similar threads
