Dobinsons 5th Gen T4R Suspension options - from Exit Offroad

Does anyone's wife DD with Dobinsons suspension?
I am overly excited about getting the family out there. What are the overall thoughts on ride quality on and off road? Sure its a lift and I will be able to fit bigger tires BUT will the Misses be happy with the ride? The 4Runner is her DD/kid hauler and now becoming the family overland rig. Our need for tires is increasing and I want to go a little bigger so suspension is next on the list.

We've done a few trips in the 3ed gen with OME suspension and shes not impressed with the stiffer ride. Kings are not in my budget right now but if they have to be so be it, I'll wait till the fall to buy. I honestly don't want the added maintenance and they are like $3k plus rear springs and uca's.

I'm thinkin
front springs c59-302 (2.5 lift)
front shocks gs59-700
rear springs c59-325 (2-2.25 lift)
rear shocks gs59-705

LT285-70-17 Ridge Grapplers
JBA uca's

I'd rather keep a close to factory rake if possible. Will OME trim packers work in the back to get a 2.5 lift?
The only weight I might add in the future is a C4 low pro and a winch.
Thanks
 
Does anyone's wife DD with Dobinsons suspension?
I am overly excited about getting the family out there. What are the overall thoughts on ride quality on and off road? Sure its a lift and I will be able to fit bigger tires BUT will the Misses be happy with the ride? The 4Runner is her DD/kid hauler and now becoming the family overland rig. Our need for tires is increasing and I want to go a little bigger so suspension is next on the list.

We've done a few trips in the 3ed gen with OME suspension and shes not impressed with the stiffer ride. Kings are not in my budget right now but if they have to be so be it, I'll wait till the fall to buy. I honestly don't want the added maintenance and they are like $3k plus rear springs and uca's.

I'm thinkin
front springs c59-302 (2.5 lift)
front shocks gs59-700
rear springs c59-325 (2-2.25 lift)
rear shocks gs59-705

LT285-70-17 Ridge Grapplers
JBA uca's

I'd rather keep a close to factory rake if possible. Will OME trim packers work in the back to get a 2.5 lift?
The only weight I might add in the future is a C4 low pro and a winch.
Thanks

Can't comment on the shocks, but I have Dobinson springs with 5100's and the ride quality is fantastic. It is a little stiffer than stock, but I would say that makes it feel more in control. We do a lot of highway trips and my wife has never complained about the ride and even commented that she now enjoys driving my 4runner more because it doesn't nose dive.
 
I'd rather keep a close to factory rake if possible. Will OME trim packers work in the back to get a 2.5 lift?
The only weight I might add in the future is a C4 low pro and a winch.
Thanks
The rear could be pretty tall with no rear weight, so you may just want to run it with those coils and no spacers and see how you like it.

See attached for the same parts installed on his, I just got these photos today. He has a roof rack, so it may be a fraction lower than running a stock rack.
 

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Can't comment on the shocks, but I have Dobinson springs with 5100's and the ride quality is fantastic. It is a little stiffer than stock, but I would say that makes it feel more in control. We do a lot of highway trips and my wife has never complained about the ride and even commented that she now enjoys driving my 4runner more because it doesn't nose dive.

Thanks! What size and load range tires did u go with?

The rear could be pretty tall with no rear weight, so you may just want to run it with those coils and no spacers and see how you like it.

See attached for the same parts installed on his, I just got these photos today. He has a roof rack, so it may be a fraction lower than running a stock rack.

That looks awesome! I agree no spacers.
Looks like he has JBAs too? Any chance you know if those KO2s are 275s or 285s.
 
Just put in an order for my 2016 Trail Edition KDSS (RSG sliders, RCI skid, and soon a small center bumper.)

Dobinsons 2.0" to 2.5" Lift Kit Toyota 4Runner 2010-18 with KDSS:

C59-314 - 80-150LBS medium load front weight, 2" lift.
C59-723 - Stock weight rear end, 1.25" to 1.5" lift
GS59-700 - Twin Tube, suits 0-2.5" lift
GS59-705 - Twin Tube, suits 0-2.5" lift, softer valving for empty rear ends.

To Mike -- I sent you an email a few days ago about an apparent website messup of the above order (it let me pick, and I didn't check/notice, non-KDSS coils for the front, as part of the KDSS selection form.)

What options are there to exchange for the correct coils -- C59-726 probably?

EDIT: have resolved the concern with Mike directly via email. C59-314 is correct and appropriate for KDSS for what I need.
 
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To Mike -- I sent you an email a few days ago about an apparent website messup of the above order (it let me pick, and I didn't check/notice, non-KDSS coils for the front, as part of the KDSS selection form.)

What options are there to exchange for the correct coils -- C59-726 probably?

I haven't received an email from you. KDSS vehicles only need to offset the front or rear, and the website is setup that way. It's easier to add offset height rear coils to correct for the KDSS lean.
 
Does anyone's wife DD with Dobinsons suspension?
I am overly excited about getting the family out there. What are the overall thoughts on ride quality on and off road? Sure its a lift and I will be able to fit bigger tires BUT will the Misses be happy with the ride? The 4Runner is her DD/kid hauler and now becoming the family overland rig. Our need for tires is increasing and I want to go a little bigger so suspension is next on the list.

We've done a few trips in the 3ed gen with OME suspension and shes not impressed with the stiffer ride. Kings are not in my budget right now but if they have to be so be it, I'll wait till the fall to buy. I honestly don't want the added maintenance and they are like $3k plus rear springs and uca's.

I'm thinkin
front springs c59-302 (2.5 lift)
front shocks gs59-700
rear springs c59-325 (2-2.25 lift)
rear shocks gs59-705

LT285-70-17 Ridge Grapplers
JBA uca's

I'd rather keep a close to factory rake if possible. Will OME trim packers work in the back to get a 2.5 lift?
The only weight I might add in the future is a C4 low pro and a winch.
Thanks

I have this exact set up with stock weight, 275-70-17 KO2s. I put .25 Toytec spacers upfront and my rake is 3". I'd go with size down in the back for 302s, or just go with the 3" inch dobbinsons set up front, you will have a rake.

The ride is a tiny bit stiffer in a good way, there is a lot less rattle on bumpy roads, and no noise dive upon breaking. It handles amazing off road, there is a ton more articulation.

silvertep-albums-random-picture51723-img-0373.jpg


silvertep-albums-random-picture51792-img-0415.jpg
 
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I wanted to know if any one had experience in regards to using the GS59-574 strut vs using the gs59-238 coil to gain a 1 inch lift. I know the long coil will be better but in reality how much better for a truck that spends 85% of its time on highways, 14% towing, and 1% in gravel driveways. The reason why I am looking to upgrade the shocks it to lessen the boat like feeling and the rake. I have never been a huge fan of Bilstein (not that they are bad by any means). To me the SR5 suspension has ridden better than any TRD suspension or 5100 shock s I had (1989 4Runner SR5/1998 SR5 Tacoma/1998 4Runner SR5-all three stock-2003 TRD Tacoma/2012 TRD Sport Tacoma-both factory and aftermarket Bilstein). Hence why I am really interested in Dobinson especially considering the basic research I have done that explains the difference in valving (progressive vs digressive). I don't want a pillow like ride but I don't want a jarring ride because I drive in a city where fixed roads are not a concern to its politicians. In addition I have no interest to change the rear coils but I would match the shocks (GS59-705 in mind to go with my firestone airbags). I would appreciate anybody's input or advice but I don't want more than an inch of lift...Thanks!
 
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I wanted to know if any one had experience in regards to using the GS59-574 strut vs using the gs59-238 coil to gain a 1 inch lift. I know the long coil will be better but in reality how much better for a truck that spends 85% of its time on highways, 14% towing, and 1% in gravel driveways. The reason why I am looking to upgrade the shocks it to lessen the boat like feeling and the rake. I have never been a huge fan of Bilstein (not that they are bad by any means). To me the SR5 suspension has ridden better than any TRD suspension or 5100 shock s I had (1989 4Runner SR5/1998 SR5 Tacoma/1998 4Runner SR5-all three stock-2003 TRD Tacoma/2012 TRD Sport Tacoma-both factory and aftermarket Bilstein). Hence why I am really interested in Dobinson especially considering the basic research I have done that explains the difference in valving (progressive vs digressive). I don't want a pillow like ride but I don't want a jarring ride because I drive in a city where fixed roads are not a concern to its politicians. In addition I have no interest to change the rear coils but I would match the shocks (GS59-705 in mind to go with my firestone airbags). I would appreciate anybody's input or advice but I don't want more than an inch of lift...Thanks!

[MENTION=46748]4boer2[/MENTION] has the same front struts and coils you're discussing here. Maybe he can chime in and give his thoughts. He's also running the 325 rear coils for 2" lift and the 705 shocks. Well, at least he was a year ago when I sold him the full kit.

The 238 coils will give up to 1" of lift, and the raised strut seat height of the 574 struts also give 1", so this combo would be more like 1.75" to 2", somewhere around there.
 
[MENTION=46748]4boer2[/MENTION] has the same front struts and coils you're discussing here. Maybe he can chime in and give his thoughts. He's also running the 325 rear coils for 2" lift and the 705 shocks. Well, at least he was a year ago when I sold him the full kit.

The 238 coils will give up to 1" of lift, and the raised strut seat height of the 574 struts also give 1", so this combo would be more like 1.75" to 2", somewhere around there.

I wanted to know if any one had experience in regards to using the GS59-574 strut vs using the gs59-238 coil to gain a 1 inch lift. I know the long coil will be better but in reality how much better for a truck that spends 85% of its time on highways, 14% towing, and 1% in gravel driveways. The reason why I am looking to upgrade the shocks it to lessen the boat like feeling and the rake. I have never been a huge fan of Bilstein (not that they are bad by any means). To me the SR5 suspension has ridden better than any TRD suspension or 5100 shock s I had (1989 4Runner SR5/1998 SR5 Tacoma/1998 4Runner SR5-all three stock-2003 TRD Tacoma/2012 TRD Sport Tacoma-both factory and aftermarket Bilstein). Hence why I am really interested in Dobinson especially considering the basic research I have done that explains the difference in valving (progressive vs digressive). I don't want a pillow like ride but I don't want a jarring ride because I drive in a city where fixed roads are not a concern to its politicians. In addition I have no interest to change the rear coils but I would match the shocks (GS59-705 in mind to go with my firestone airbags). I would appreciate anybody's input or advice but I don't want more than an inch of lift...Thanks!

Oey12 (how do you mention someone?)

I haven't made any changes since this picture suspension wise, but I did replace the two stock front skids with the RCI aluminum front skid and added an air compressor in the front. Not sure what the net gain is. Anyway, here is the rake completely empty:

43597064021_3d18c0dfd6_b.jpg


So as far as the rake goes, I've been back and forth on whether I want to drop the rear, but then after wheeling Wheeler Lake I'm wondering if I should raise the front. I'm about to load up to the ceiling to move, so I'm going to see what the rake is then. If you don't change any springs it will probably turn out level at the window line. And with the bags you are ready for a load.

I like the ride of the suspension. Personally I like when cars ride plush, and I also like boats. However, the suspension is firmer than stock SR5. I've never had 5100s so idk. Through roundabouts and mountain passes there is still body roll, but it not bad. Also not too harsh. What is harsh are the 10-ply tires I have on now, so don't do that. I remember before the tires that the car felt more "alive" instead of sluggish. There is also this good sized table speed bump that I like to hit at 40 and boy is it supple. Doesn't bottom out either.


Hope that helps, if you want pictures you can ask. Also see post 283.
 
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Oey12 (how do you mention someone?)

I haven't made any changes since this picture suspension wise, but I did replace the two stock front skids with the RCI aluminum front skid and added an air compressor in the front. Not sure what the net gain is. Anyway, here is the rake completely empty:

43597064021_3d18c0dfd6_b.jpg


So as far as the rake goes, I've been back and forth on whether I want to drop the rear, but then after wheeling Wheeler Lake I'm wondering if I should raise the front. I'm about to load up to the ceiling to move, so I'm going to see what the rake is then. If you don't change any springs it will probably turn out level at the window line. And with the bags you are ready for a load.

I like the ride of the suspension. Personally I like when cars ride plush, and I also like boats. However, the suspension is firmer than stock SR5. I've never had 5100s so idk. Through roundabouts and mountain passes there is still body roll, but it not bad. Also not too harsh. What is harsh are the 10-ply tires I have on now, so don't do that. I remember before the tires that the car felt more "alive" instead of sluggish. Now there is also this good sized table speed bump that I like to hit at 40 and boy is it supple. Doesn't bottom out either.

Hope that helps, if you want pictures you can ask. Also see post 283.

Excellent thank you...ultimately I have to play around with a jack to see what she'll look like. And yes I have no intentions to ever go with a E rated tire. The Michelin LTX's have handled everything I do with my truck.
 
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Do I need a higher spring rate

I have 40lbs added from a slimline bumper and 70lbs from the gobi rack. Just want to compensate for the extra weight and raise the front 1" for a leveled out look without using spacers. Is this enough weight to really matter?
 
I wanted to know if any one had experience in regards to using the GS59-574 strut vs using the gs59-238 coil to gain a 1 inch lift. I know the long coil will be better but in reality how much better for a truck that spends 85% of its time on highways, 14% towing, and 1% in gravel driveways. The reason why I am looking to upgrade the shocks it to lessen the boat like feeling and the rake. I have never been a huge fan of Bilstein (not that they are bad by any means). To me the SR5 suspension has ridden better than any TRD suspension or 5100 shock s I had (1989 4Runner SR5/1998 SR5 Tacoma/1998 4Runner SR5-all three stock-2003 TRD Tacoma/2012 TRD Sport Tacoma-both factory and aftermarket Bilstein). Hence why I am really interested in Dobinson especially considering the basic research I have done that explains the difference in valving (progressive vs digressive). I don't want a pillow like ride but I don't want a jarring ride because I drive in a city where fixed roads are not a concern to its politicians. In addition I have no interest to change the rear coils but I would match the shocks (GS59-705 in mind to go with my firestone airbags). I would appreciate anybody's input or advice but I don't want more than an inch of lift...Thanks!

I purchased the GS59-574 and used the stock coils on my 2wd SR5 to gain a little over an inch in the front. No complaints whatsoever. They ride great.
 
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