IFS over SA? and tundra lift for the 4runner

[Dirtyfingers]

What are the pros compared to the cons? and why would I want to keep my IFS, or why would i want to get a SAS?

Also I've heard of a lift that can achieve 3 or so inches of clearance on the suspension from the front Toyota TRD tundra suspension (2002-2006 generation) and the FJ80 series front coils to put on the back, has anyone done this? if so whats the best color code to go with? (of course I'm getting a diff drop)

 

[KidVermicious]

What are the pros compared to the cons? and why would I want to keep my IFS, or why would i want to get a SAS?

Generally speaking, IFS is a better ride on pavement and can handle higher speeds on dirt. A straight axle is stronger and articulates better.

I would think you'd want to keep your IFS to save money and keep your truck comfy on the street and trail, and you'd want to swap to a straight axle if you're constantly breaking CV shafts due to the monster tires you're running in order to follow those rock buggies. If you're not trying for the hardest lines on the hardest trails, you don't need a straight axle in front.

 

[Dirtyfingers]

alright thanks, thats what i needed to hear, i want to have fun prerunning on dirt roads, but i also want to be able to do some trails as well.

 

[fourwd1]

It all depends on what you want your truck for. If it's general 4wheeling and trail riding and most of the time on-road, IFS is all you need. If you want hard core rockcrawling, a solid axle will take more of a beating.

 

[BucknutBob]

All of the above. SAS is for if you plan some hardcore wheeling in your future, rocks in particular, which require better articulation to keep the wheels in contact so the tires can work. You can get by with IFS just fine, just don't go nuts adding tall lifts and big tires which will strain those CV shafts to the breaking point. As for lifts on the newer models, I'm afraid I have no idea (my stuff's all older).

 

[Dirtyfingers]

that actually brings me to another question, i understand that adding bigger tires takes away MPG's i want to run 35's but dont know what the best gears are to use to regear? what will help me out without having to rev it too hard?

 

[TegoXR]

I believe 5.29s for 35s but I could be wrong I was looking into regearing when I had my 2nd Gen, someone correct me if I'm wrong.

 

[KidVermicious]

that actually brings me to another question, i understand that adding bigger tires takes away MPG's i want to run 35's but dont know what the best gears are to use to regear? what will help me out without having to rev it too hard?

Bookmark this - Gear Ratio Calculator

 

[BucknutBob]

I believe 5.29s for 35s but I could be wrong I was looking into regearing when I had my 2nd Gen, someone correct me if I'm wrong.

You are correct--5.29's with 35's will bring it back to it's normal operating range, making the truck accelerate as stock, operate at the proper rpm's, and keep the speedo fairly close.

 

[Dirtyfingers]

You are correct--5.29's with 35's will bring it back to it's normal operating range, making the truck accelerate as stock, operate at the proper rpm's, and keep the speedo fairly close.

Alright that is what i want then thanks.

 

[BlackWorksInc]

From what I've seen, IFS with a solid rear axle will get you pretty much most off-road situations when built up right. But they have the drawback of being more complicated (more parts, connection points ect...), they make up for that with smoother on-road performance and fast travel over dirt/rough road (think Baja trucks, often individual wheel travel past 18") Solid axles provide superior articulation in situations such as rockcrawling, or large obstacle conditions (often though, rock-crawling is more a niche than a general condition you come accross off-roading). They are often simplier in design and easier to repair on the trail, but they have a harsh ride, have a tendency to wander when not dialed in properly, and steering effort is often an issue without proper counter-force.

In my honest opinion, if you're rig is built to just where ever the dirt takes you, you're better off with a IFS/SRA set up. If you're planning on taking on serious obstacle courses and rockcrawling, SFA/SRA is the only real way to go.