Leaning 4Runner problem

[sfm7315]

Hi guys and gals, on my wife's 98 4Runner Limited , I have lately noticed it's leaning left (drivers side) . I have changed shocks this past summer if that helps to know.
Can anyone please tell me what could cause this and how to correct. It's very noticable and I need to correct it.

 

[QSVeilside]

If you went with Bilstein shocks, check the aluminum spring seats. The flat side should be down. If you see a curved bottom the seat is installed in reverse.

 

[techno]

9/10 times leaning is caused by the coils springs getting old unevenly. It is not uncommon for the drivers side coild to sag sooner then the passenger side simply because there is always the weight of a driver but not always a passenger. (No offence to your wife of course )
Shock absorbers have a negligable effect on ride height, they simple control the coil springs. Shocks will only cause visible ride height problems if they are damaged and are binding up and restricting coil movement.
New coil springs should help you, and you'll be pleased to know that coils are reasonably inexpensive items.
One other thing though, and I'm not trying to be smart here, but make sure sure your tire pressures are all even. My wife complained about her car leaning once, and was a little embarressed when I pointed out the flat tire she had!

 

[QSVeilside]

Shock absorbers have a negligable effect on ride height, they simple control the coil springs. Shocks will only cause visible ride height problems if they are damaged and are binding up and restricting coil movement.

The springs sit on aluminum seats that are mounted on the shocks, (this is how the shocks "control" the coil springs). If the seats are installed in reverse, they WILL affect ride height. It is possible that his mechanic installed one of his shock seats incorrectly. I'm not saying this is what happened. I'm simply offering a possibility. The guy really didn't offer much information to go off of aside from getting new shocks installed...

http://www.yotatech.com/f2/2001-t4r-new-bilstein-hds-installed-but-rear-sagging-115512/

Here's my response to a member on a different forum with rear sagging issues due to reversed spring seat installation.

 

[techno]

Well, yes, you are talking about struts and installing them incorrectly and if they happen to be bilsteins. Obviously making an installation mistake like that will cause a problem. Actually, those bilsteins are the only strut I've seen that don't have the lower spring seat welded in place in the factory.
I was talking about the design intent and performance of shocks and struts in a suspension system, in which case what I said is true.
(BTW, I was actually writing my post at the same time you did yours so did not intend my reponse to refer to your suggestion)

 

[QSVeilside]

:iagree:

Springs are the determining factor of ride height.

I assumed your post was in regard to the spring seat scenario. My mistake.

 

[sfm7315]

would changing the rear springs help? I heard there might be a recall on my model year about rear springs

 

[sfm7315]

Just got a quote from Stealership for new rear springs:
$343 labour to change rear coils
$132 per rear coil and thought I'd ask- $200 per each front
Does this sound right??

 

[sfm7315]

Thanks "QSVeilside" you are right!!! My front passenger aluminum seat is upside down....I'll be in to see the mechanic first thing in the morning!!!
Can you tell me if there might be any permanent damage?
The new shocks were put in in late August
What's your opinion?

 

[QSVeilside]

Thanks "QSVeilside" you are right!!! My front passenger aluminum seat is upside down....I'll be in to see the mechanic first thing in the morning!!!
Can you tell me if there might be any permanent damage?
The new shocks were put in in late August
What's your opinion?

No problem.

It all depends if the seat is warped. Sounds as though it wasn't on for that long. Follow the link I mentioned earlier for more information as well as an installation manual for your mechanic.

 

[QSVeilside]

BY THE WAY...

Make sure that he corrects the seat that is causing the LIFT.

Otherwise, your front end will look jacked up 1.5" inches higher than your rear.