Front shocks

[4Ronner]

On a 98 4Runner does anyone have experience with MONROE Quick Struts - Part #'s 171351L & R? About $90ea at Rock Auto. It appears these are pretty simple to install - just a few bolts top and bottom. Is it really that easy? Any advice would be helpful. Thanks.

 

[YotaDan]

You will need to compress the coil springs. I would suggest a set of Bilstein 5100s. I can get you a pair for $173.00
These shocks will allow you to keep the vehicle at stock height, level it out, or lift it up to 2.5"

 

[fourwd1]

H'mm, 180 for Monroes or 173 for Bilsteins.
Well it's a no-brainer, and not because of the price.
Go with the Bilsteins.

 

[4Ronner]

I had Bilsteins on my S10 so I know they're good but their site says the 4600 series is the one for my '98:

Bilstein, Innovation and High Quality Since 1873

No mention of the 5100 .. what do they offer?

Also the Monroe is a strut/spring pre-assembled unit - video shows it just bolts right in - no spring removal/compression required. The question is are they any good or are the Bilsteins .. 4600 or 5100 better.

Thanks.

 

[shadow247]

I had Bilsteins on my S10 so I know they're good but their site says the 4600 series is the one for my '98:

Bilstein, Innovation and High Quality Since 1873

No mention of the 5100 .. what do they offer?

Also the Monroe is a strut/spring pre-assembled unit - video shows it just bolts right in - no spring removal/compression required. The question is are they any good or are the Bilsteins .. 4600 or 5100 better.

Thanks.

I have seen reviews from OK, to absolutely terrible. Most report a slight lift, usually brining the front up to that of a typical 99 Highlander, some have reported the shocks are soft and mushy. I have Monroe struts for a Tundra on mine with my stock 99 Highlander coils. The ride is firmer than stock, but it had Monroes on it before, then I went to Tundra Bilsteins, now I am running the Tundra monroes.

Bilsteins are not specifically made for our 4Runners, so some run 1st Gen Tacoma 5100's or 1st Gen Tundra 5100's. The Tundra's are firmer than the Tacoma's from what I have read.

If you are mechanically inclined, you can install the Monroe Quik-strut in your driveway with a few tools. Using the Bilsteins, which will offer a far superior ride, will be a little more challenging and labor intensive. You will have to break down your current struts, which will require a spring compressor or taking it to a competent shop. This can add about 100 bucks labor at the most, and I highly recommend paying someone else to break down and reassemble your struts if you don't have access to the spring compressor machine that is mounted to the wall.