Help me finalize my lift setup

[ARK_SWAMP_RIDER]

I'm really ready to get my 4runner lifted. I've looked at a ton of options, and I'm finally about ready. I've got a 2003 4runner v8 4x4. It has the ride height adjust suspension in the rear along with X-REAS. I'd like to keep both. I'm shooting for a lift of 1.5 inch. I was gonna run a topout spacer to do so, but I've found a cheaper and seemingly better alternative. I want to run the Toytech top out spacer (1/2 inch thick spacer to give 1 inch of lift) combined with FJ Cruiser front springs (.5-.75" from what I've heard). Since my 4runner has ~130k miles, I'm sure the factory springs are worn so I'm expecting the .75 from the FJ springs. Any issues with this setup? I'm wanting stock ride quality, as this is a daily driver that does not go off road. I've read the FJ springs ride better than stock, so that's a big plus. Will any FJ springs work, or is there a certain year/model I need? I've found a front set of springs for $20, or a whole set of a 2010 with like 200 miles for $50. I can't use the rears, but that's still a great deal. Is it any harder to replace the spring than to install a spacer? Any opinions on this setup? Thank you all for the help I've received on my lift.

 

[Richierollz]

Im a noob to the lift stuff, so i can only give you some info. Im also in the same boat, 2.5/1.5 spacer lift kit, FJ C 4x4 springs F/R, and spidertrax are on the way. And note **I'm doing this to retain my Xreas, for now. I'll be posting a write up with all the pics i can take in a few weeks.
The only things I've read and been told is that FJ springs work with Xreas/stock/bilsteins...etc. The rear Xreas shocks bottom out easy, so you dont want to lift them too high. The FJ C 4x4 springs should give you about a 3/4 to 1 inch overall lift. As far as the rear air suspension thing I HAVE NO IDEA!! and i myself need to find out if i have this on my truck. Look for BlairB's write up on this exact install with Xreas. I just read it the other night... Really good info!!

Hope this helps and anyone else please dont castrate me if my info is off

 

[Richierollz]

BlairB pics

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/4th-gen-t4rs/48310-fj-springs-bfg-mts-lots-pics.html

OME install post

OME Install - no spring compressor - Toyota 120 Platforms Forum

maybe this will help you out!

 

[ARK_SWAMP_RIDER]

Thanks!!! As far as the rear air, you'd know if it was own there. There is an indicator light on that dash where the tach is, and also there is a off button along with a raise an lower button on the center console. With the rear air adjust, you cannot lift the rear (easily). I spoke with Jason Burtman and he has dealt with a guy doing it, but it required a bit of fabbing. You can manually adjust the rear air sensors to "trick" it into lifting. However, as this is just a daily driver, if I can get the front up to a level stance (well, a little rake left) I'll be happy. It's a game of numbers, but I know theoretically this setup gives just what I want. I've just not seen anyone do what I'm wanting to do (especially with the rear air system) so I'd like to make sure this will be the best option for lifting my 4runner and retaining factory systems/ride.

 

[Richierollz]

Thanks for the info on the rear air!! I never even knew that option existed and I've owned about 4 toyota truck, 2 4runners! As far as a front only lift, thats a piece of cake either with or with out the springs by just doing spacers or throwing on a bigger spring and getting an inch lift. The rear... I think ive come across a few threads/articles on that but when reading i had no idea what it even was... I would try a search on Toyota120 and here... Wish i had more insight for you!!

 

[ARK_SWAMP_RIDER]

I've got all the info I need on the rear. I've read several threads over on toyota120 regarding it. I just need this thread to confirm the front will be what I want. The rear air system has sensors to detect a load in the rear. If the rear is weighted down (say loaded with cargo or pulling a trailer), the rear air system automatically adjusts to bring the rear back up to factory height. I like the idea, but kinda a pain when you go to lift. So, is the FJ Coils and 1/2 inch spacer the way to go for the front?

 

[chaz]

merle did a similar lift,heres his specs afterward. maybe PM him for install info. glad you found out what will work for you, i think you'll like it. http://www.toyota-4runner.org/4th-g...ngs-finally-installed-3-4-preload-spacer.html

 

[ARK_SWAMP_RIDER]

Excellent, thanks!!! I've did a search on this and other forums, but apparently me and the search function don't get along too well. I know this give what I want, but question is will it be the best solution? I like the concept of it, and can't see why it won't work, but messing with the X-REAS system concerns me a little. Thanks again!