5th Gen 4Runner Lift Buyers Guide

[thebwlife]

On the 5th Generation 4Runner there is a ton of questions about suspensions systems and what people should get to run what tires. I put together this bit of information more as a beginning for people just starting out in the suspension modification game. These are just my recommendations and don’t cover half the available options. Please see [MENTION=66316]1engineer[/MENTION] post about tire fitment here – http://www.toyota-4runner.org/5th-gen-t4rs/156378-5th-gen-tire-fitment-guide.html#post1550444

First you need to identify what suspension system you have:

Standard: What I’ll call regular for lack of a better word, comes with “regular” shocks and springs. It’s a coil-spring independent double-wishbone front suspension with stabilizer bar in the front and a coil-spring 4 link with lateral rod rear suspension with stabilizer bar in the rear.

XREAS: You can identify this by looking at all the shocks, they will have a hose coming off of it. This is a full system dependent on each corner, shocks are cross-linked creating a X pattern, thus the name. More information (Link to

K.D.S.S.: from Harper7 via the service manual.
In the KDSS (Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System), a cylinder is installed to each of the front and rear stabilizer bars. The front and rear cylinder upper chambers and the front and rear lower chambers are each connected by a pipe. The hydraulic circuit is filled with high-pressure suspension fluid. The stabilizer control ECU controls the stabilizer control solenoid valves according to input signals from sensor.More info and links here: Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

You can have Standard, or a combination of K.D.S.S. with standard, or you can have XREAS. If you have XREAS and want to keep it you are limited to the top spacer lifts.

If there is a suspension system I missed please pm/reply [MENTION=45399]thebwlife[/MENTION] the info in the format I have below and I'll get it added.

I’ll start with the cheaper systems and work my way up to the more expensive custom systems.

Spacer Lifts:

1. Daystar

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/60228666@N02/13338470523/" title="1349185_1 by thebwlife, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3723/13338470523_9f74c0849f_o.jpg" width="500" height="500" alt="1349185_1"></a>

• Daystar Comfort Ride Strut and Coil Spring Spacer Lift Kits are designed to improve ground clearance, allow use of large tires and enhance the performance of the vehicle. They are made from high density polyurethane that ensures long lasting durability. These kits facilitate easy installation.
  
• Current Price - $135
• Link to purchase - Amazon.com: Daystar KT09124BK Comfort Ride Strut and Coil Spring Spacer Lift Kit: Automotive

2. Toytec

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/60228666@N02/13338450055/" title="3__lift___leveli_4b213c969a40b by thebwlife, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7322/13338450055_23a3736232.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="3__lift___leveli_4b213c969a40b"></a>

• Front: 3" Front Lift Spacer Kit -- CNC Machined From T-6 6061 Aluminum or 2 1/2" lift spacers available in plain silver aluminum, Black, Red, or Blue anodized spacers & 6 longer top plate spacer studs. (3" lift spacers only). Rear: (2) Rear 1 1/2" coil spring spacers.Works great with stock shocks. NOTE: 3" front spacers are Not recommended for 2010+ models and will leave the front of your vehicle sitting higher than the rear. Choose 2.5" spacers from the drop down for '10+ FJ and 4Runner, 2010+ models without XREAS USE Kit FJ3-RCC for a level front to rear kit.
  
• Current Price - $240
• Link to purchase: 3" lift / leveling kit for FJ & 4Runner

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/60228666@N02/13338601585/" title="BEST_SELLER__3___4b451127c7338 by thebwlife, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7406/13338601585_8f71670ff6.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="BEST_SELLER__3___4b451127c7338"></a>

• Best Spacer Lift for your FJ & 4Runner! Included in kit:Front: 3" Front Lift Spacer Kit -- CNC Machined From T-6 6061 Aluminum Also available in black anodized for additional $20.00, select from options below. 6 longer top plate spacer studs. Rear: (2) 2" Lift Rear ToyTec "super flex" coil springs. (10% increase above stock capacity and spring rate for the best ride and flex). *Not Advised For Vehicles With XREAS*
• Current Price - $320
• Link to purchase - BEST SELLER! 3" FJ Lift Kit w/spacers and rear ToyTec coils

3. Revtek

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/60228666@N02/13339376044/" title="71dv4CR9-fL._SL1500_ by thebwlife, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2869/13339376044_c8ea5f9996.jpg" width="500" height="380" alt="71dv4CR9-fL._SL1500_"></a>

• All Inclusive Kit. Uses Same Proven Tech As Our Other Toyota Lifts. Allows For Tires Up To 285/75 On Positive Wheels. Complete System Includes Rear Shocks. Reduces Front End Dive And Roll. Utilizes OEM Shocks And Struts.
• Current Price - $470
• To Buy Link - Amazon.com: Revtek Suspension 432 3" Suspension Lift Kit: Automotive

4. Readylift SST

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/60228666@N02/13338985725/" title="41nyrDtmswL by thebwlife, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3829/13338985725_d06c66f1d6.jpg" width="448" height="384" alt="41nyrDtmswL"></a>

• ReadyLift Smart Suspension Technology Lift Kit includes 2 rear OEM style blocks that have the OEM integrated bump stops, 2 coil spring extensions, OEM cast style panhard bracket, 2 front bump stop extensions, carrier bearing spacer, 2 OEM shock extension brackets and all needed hardware. It provides a fast and safe way to bring the front of the vehicle with the rear. This lift kit is easy to install and does not affect the factory OEM ride quality or comfort. It is backed by manufacturer’s limited lifetime warranty.
• Current Price - $410
• To Buy Link - Amazon.com: ReadyLift 69-5060 Smart Suspension Technology Lift Kit: Automotive

5. Truxxx

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/60228666@N02/13339319813/" title="71HgBAvQKoL._SL1500_ by thebwlife, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7184/13339319813_b0610d523b.jpg" width="429" height="500" alt="71HgBAvQKoL._SL1500_"></a>

• This 3" lift and level kit is the one to use if your looking to fit larger wheels and tires, increase ground clearance and just enhance the look of your 2003-2007 Toyota 4Runner 4x2 or 4x4 with or without X-Reas Suspension.
• Current Price - $185
• To Buy Link - Amazon.com: Truxxx 905099 3" Front/1.25" Rear Lift Kit: Automotive

7. Rough Country

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/60228666@N02/13342260145/" title="416qDgRTKVL by thebwlife, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7196/13342260145_c06fe91c26.jpg" width="500" height="332" alt="416qDgRTKVL"></a>

Rough Country 765S - 3-inch Suspension Lift Kit with Nitro 9000 Series Shocks for Toyota
Current Price - $200
To Buy Link - http://amzn.to/1h8Guqk

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/60228666@N02/13342260195/" title="51W-Au6RFZL by thebwlife, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7426/13342260195_f61cf13d6e.jpg" width="500" height="370" alt="51W-Au6RFZL"></a>

Rough Country 760.20 - 3-inch Series II Suspension Lift System with Premium N2.0 Series Shocks
Current Price - $250
To Buy Link - http://amzn.to/1jo9woI

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/60228666@N02/13342260195/" title="51W-Au6RFZL by thebwlife, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7426/13342260195_f61cf13d6e.jpg" width="500" height="370" alt="51W-Au6RFZL"></a>

Rough Country 760P - 3-inch Series II Suspension Lift System with Performance 2.2 Series Shocks
Current Price - $300
To Buy Link - http://amzn.to/1nOZQd3

 

[thebwlife]

Non-Rebuildable Coilovers & Shocks:

1. Bilstein 5100

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/60228666@N02/14107717635/" title="bilstein_5100_adjustable_l by thebwlife, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5483/14107717635_4892c7924e.jpg" width="500" height="201" alt="bilstein_5100_adjustable_l"></a>

• The Bilstein 5100 is an offroad ready high pressure monotube shock designed to take the abuses of offroad driving while still offering comfort and safety on the road.
• $110 Fronts & $85 Rears
• Front: Amazon.com: Bilstein 24-196499 46mm Monotube Shock Absorber: Automotive & Rear:Amazon.com: Bilstein (33-187174) 5100 Series Shock Absorber: Automotive

2. Old Man Emu (OME)

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/60228666@N02/14104716052/" title="thumbnail.asp by thebwlife, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7306/14104716052_7e5ce1b9b5.jpg" width="277" height="205" alt="thumbnail.asp"></a>

• The relationship between vehicle weight and suspension is where Old Man Emu gets its name - the emu is a large Australian flightless bird, when it runs, its powerful legs absorb most of the impact, allowing it to move over all types of terrain while its body remains virtually motionless. This is what Old Man Emu strives to achieve with its range of fully integrated 4x4 shocks and suspension systems. Old Man Emu suspension systems include carefully matched spring and shock combinations engineered to improve vehicle ride, handling and control under various loads.
• $900-$1100 - pending options
• OME full suspension -- Click here for details

3. Toytec Adjustable Coilover

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/60228666@N02/14107845095/" title="41T2hzx5icL by thebwlife, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2938/14107845095_83caed39fa.jpg" width="450" height="300" alt="41T2hzx5icL"></a>

• ToyTec/Bilstein front adjustable coilover shocks featuring Bilstein 5100 front shocks adjustable from 1" to 3" front lift. ToyTec "Superflex" rear 2" lift coils add 2" rear flex per side when combined with included rear shocks!
• $1225
• Amazon.com: Toytec Lifts 2010 & up FJ Cruiser/4Runner Ultimate 3" lift package: Automotive

4. Toytec Non-Adjustable Coilover

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/60228666@N02/14107845125/" title="41M+wpDB6ZL by thebwlife, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5572/14107845125_778b227425.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="41M+wpDB6ZL"></a>

• Toytec/Eibach 112620 front lift coils. Preset at 3" front Lift and able to carry extra front weight. 2" Rear Lift "Superflex" coil springs- 10% increase in load capacity/spring rate and a great ride quality.
• $925
• Amazon.com: Toytec Lifts 3" Lift W/ Bilstein 5100 Height Adj Coilovers 2007 & up FJ/2003 & up 4Runner: Automotive

5. Procomp

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/60228666@N02/14128019333/" title="71v8FwT-NnL._SL1500_ by thebwlife, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7191/14128019333_28fb8cf74a.jpg" width="491" height="500" alt="71v8FwT-NnL._SL1500_"></a>

• Everything You Will Need For To Lift Your Vehicle. Provides A Smooth Compliant Ride.
• $565
• Amazon.com: Pro Comp K5074B 3" Lift Kit with Coil and ES9000 Shocks for Toyota FJ Cruiser '07-'09: Automotive

 

[thebwlife]

Rebuildable Coilovers & Shocks:

10. Icon Vehicle Dynamics

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/60228666@N02/14108462444/" title="53042__61082_zoom by thebwlife, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7445/14108462444_6b268bec65.jpg" width="450" height="327" alt="53042__61082_zoom"></a>

• ICON Vehicle Dynamics is a premiere performance suspension manufacturer specializing in aftermarket suspension components for trucks, SUV’s and off road suspension development. The company’s business is customer-driven, technology-influenced, engineering-oriented and focuses on world-class manufacturing processes and techniques.
• $1500-$6000
• Quality Off Road Parts & Accessories Since 1999 Toytec Lifts - Toytec Lifts: Toyota Lift Kits: FJ Cruiser Lift Kits, Tacoma Lift Kits, Tundra Lift Kits, 4 Runner Lift Kits, Sequoia Lift Kits, Toyota Truck Lift Kits MetalTech Maximum Impact Website

11. Radflo

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/60228666@N02/13921541627/" title="629 by thebwlife, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7370/13921541627_0bba48aa9a.jpg" width="500" height="500" alt="629"></a>

Radflo Suspension Technology - Why Radflo?
$1500-$6000
Quality Off Road Parts & Accessories Since 1999 Toytec Lifts - Toytec Lifts: Toyota Lift Kits: FJ Cruiser Lift Kits, Tacoma Lift Kits, Tundra Lift Kits, 4 Runner Lift Kits, Sequoia Lift Kits, Toyota Truck Lift Kits MetalTech Maximum Impact Website

12. King

· Picture
· Manufactures Description
· Current Price
· To Buy Link
13. Walker Evans

· Picture
· Manufactures Description
· Current Price
· To Buy Link

14. Toytec Boss

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/60228666@N02/13921292738/" title="51Ni6mumQ8L by thebwlife, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7446/13921292738_5992c05bca.jpg" width="450" height="394" alt="51Ni6mumQ8L"></a>

• Designed for the best overall ride comfort and performance in mind, this complete lift kit is the best lift on the market. Comes fully assembled and ready to bolt on. All parts are 100% made in the U.S.A. ToyTec's new BOSS front coilover is designed with a larger 5/8" Nitro steel shock shaft which is much more corrosion resistant than chrome plating and is valved specific to your Toyota. Our BOSS kits comes standard with Toytec RCC2.0 rear springs. These springs offer 2" of lift with stock rear weight with the best overall ride quality and rear articulation.
• $1290
• Amazon.com: Toytec Lifts Boss Suspension System for 2010 & up FJ Cruiser and 4 Runner: Automotive

15. Camburg

· Picture
· Manufactures Description
· Current Price
· To Buy Link
16. Sway-A-Way

· Picture
· Manufactures Description
· Current Price
· To Buy Link.
17. Fox

· Picture
· Manufactures Description
· Current Price
· To Buy Link

 

[thebwlife]

Long Travel Kits:

18. Total Chaos

· Picture
· Manufactures Description
· Current Price
· To Buy Link
19. Camburg

· Picture
· Manufactures Description
· Current Price
· To Buy Link

 

[FrontRange4Runner]

Super awesome idea. My humble suggestion is to change "Standard" to "Stock". Your current definition explains exactly what we have in "stock" form. Standard seems to imply that all of the suspension components are the same across the entire line up (most parts are but KDSS and XREAS change some things). Thanks for putting the time into this - it's a huge project, but it will be a big help for a lot of people. Free beers are waiting should you ever come through the my area.

 

[Jeremy556]

You might want to include some information on the differences between rubber, poly bushings and spherical bearings, for both shocks and control arms.

 

[jrandom]

Great idea! Probably a bigger undertaking! This will be quite helpful when its finished. Says the completely overwhelmed totally undecided person looking for a good system.

If I may suggest maybe include a link to the Coilover Bible or anything else similar.

 

[cbielat]

Man [MENTION=45399]thebwlife[/MENTION], you're putting in work on this thread. Go you!

 

[Dano69]

New to the forum, Is it ok to ask questions here on this thread? Just bought a 2010 Le, looking for info on how to remove xreas. Would like to install 2.5" spacer lift and fox racing shocks on all corners. Any info or a link would be helpfull

 

[cbielat]

New to the forum, Is it ok to ask questions here on this thread? Just bought a 2010 Le, looking for info on how to remove xreas. Would like to install 2.5" spacer lift and fox racing shocks on all corners. Any info or a link would be helpfull

There's another thread or sticky for these questions. Use the search bar first. If you're planning on going with a 2.5" spacer lift on top of a coilover Fox set up, you better plan on buying extra CV axles more frequently. I think the angle of the cv's will be too great. Do one or the other.

 

[Dano69]

Will do. Thanks for the info cbielat

 

[thebwlife]

updated section 2...

 

[thebwlife]

[MENTION=48772]Jesse1983[/MENTION] think this is ready for the sticky area, i'll try to finish it up later tonight. Then i'll be doing the UCA are buyers guide.

 

[Neauxla]

Since I'm limited by my XREAS suspension...what's the biggest tires I can put on my factory 20" rims if I get the 1.5" spacers on front and rear?

w/o any lift, the biggest you can do is 275 55r20....can I go up to 60 or 65 w/ the lift?

 

[Batang.Gapo]

Very Informative

Very informative, thanks for taking time...:thumb:

 

[sts00]

Great info!:thanks:

 

[Seattle206]

Awesome thread!

I am thinking of going about with a slight lift. Front between 1.5-2" and the rear leveled. I have an SR5 and want to go with the Bilstein 5100 and the rear with a 1.5" Daystar spacer. Will that work? Will anything else be needed for this job?

 

[Manatee]

Thanks for posting this. Great info!

 

[marshal]

don't forget some things can be mixed and matched, I'm running OME springs with 5100 shocks

 

[TRicks4]

great thread thank you so much! Can someone real quick tell me if the ready lift sst lift on this forum fit my 2015 sr5? I go on their website and it doesn't show it being an option but other websites do. Can someone please clear this up for me on this thread or in pm.. Much appreciated ready to pull the trigger on a kit