Can I just replace the shocks..

[Pilotamis]

Just found the timing chain cover is leaking pretty bad and needs to be addressed asap. I also need a new suspension, but the cost to fix the leak just blew my entire budget for brakes, lift, rims and tires. The suspension is completely toast and needs to be replaced asap. Since I don't know how long I'm going to keep it now, is it a viable option to just replace the shocks? What do springs do vs shocks? I'm thinking I could just add shocks and give it some life. It was a tour company's prior to me purchasing it. They ran some rough fire roads for 115k miles on the original suspension. Not pretty.

 

[wnelax04sr5]

whether you have xreas or the normal suspension setup, it is viable to replace just shocks and reuse springs. are you going to do it yourself or send it to a shop?

 

[Pilotamis]

whether you have xreas or the normal suspension setup, it is viable to replace just shocks and reuse springs. are you going to do it yourself or send it to a shop?

Normal suspension, I'll do it myself. I think I saw somewhere a hack to get the front shock in there without a special tool but I'm open to suggestions.

 

[Gdmeadors]

Springs don't wear out per se although they may lose some of their tension. Most people replace them so they can have a stiffer or softer ride or to help raise their vehicle's height. You can leave the stock springs in without any adverse effects.


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[RonJR]

Normal suspension, I'll do it myself. I think I saw somewhere a hack to get the front shock in there without a special tool but I'm open to suggestions.

This:
http://http://www.toyota120.com/forum/showthread.php?t=3270&highlight=spring+compressor

Just don't underestimate the energy in that spring. The fronts are compressed to about 2200 lbs under normal load and still about 1100lbs with the wheels jacked up off the ground and the strut at full extension. The method above should be safe, but make sure you understand what's happening. Do NOT remove the top shock nut until you have the jack solidly under the control arm.

 

[Snacksquatch]

This:
http://http://www.toyota120.com/forum/showthread.php?t=3270&highlight=spring+compressor

Just don't underestimate the energy in that spring. The fronts are compressed to about 2200 lbs under normal load and still about 1100lbs with the wheels jacked up off the ground and the strut at full extension. The method above should be safe, but make sure you understand what's happening. Do NOT remove the top shock nut until you have the jack solidly under the control arm.

Can confirm that this procedure works very well, but be VERY aware of what you're doing, and also remember to torque every bolt back to factory spec and get Loctite on it all.

 

[Pilotamis]

Awesome! Thanks!

 

[themuffinman619]

Find a set of trd Tacoma Bilstein take offs. The fronts will swap right in. If you can find the fronts complete, then even better. The rear shocks will fit as well, you'll just need to change out the lower bushing.