Lift Question

[Logan714]

So, I'm finally getting my tax return back (yay!) and I've decided I'm going to use the money to finally lift my 4runner.

My question to you fine ladies and gentlemen is this:

I'm torn between the toytec ultimate and a complete OME suspension lift on the toytec website.

The main thing that's confusing me are all the options available with the OME. I ordered a shrockworks bumper so I know that the suspension will need to be upgraded to support the weight.

I ask you: which one would be the better choice? Is the ultimate worth the extra few hundred bucks?

Another question I pose to you is this: is it necessary to purchase the new upper control arms when installing a lift?

Much thanks to everyone, I'm sure I'll think of more questions as I go along.

 

[BigredTEX]

The OME system has three spring options ( I don't have the model numbers handy) ranging from stock weight all the way up to the addition of bumpers front and rear, full skid plates, sliders and a winch. I have the medium springs without any additional items to that would add weight to the vehicle and they are pretty stiff. I have plans to install sliders (already ordered) and a winch using the Bud Built hidden winch plate. I am hoping the additions of these items will soften the ride a little. In addition, when taking trips to get off road I usually am carrying a heavy load of gear, so I don't mind the rougher ride when not loaded.

With your addition of a front bumper (and I assume a winch at some point) you could possibly get by with the softest springs from OME, but the mediums may be the better setup.

As for the adjustable UCAs, I have said it before that you don't have to have them, but you will want them. In order to get the necessary caster setting of 3.5 to 4.0 degrees you will need them to keep the camber from going too far negative. You can get by without them and set the caster at ~3.0 degrees, but steering feel and straight line stability will suffer.

 

[Jeremy556]

Do you want adjustability? If so, get the Toyotec Ultimate.

Yes, you need after market UCAs when lifting an IFS Toyota. You might be able tog to by with shitty caster angles, but really, FFS. You are driving a 30-40K vehicle, spend a fraction of a percent and get a proper adjustable UCA.

 

[Logan714]

With no real plans to add anything to the rear of the vehicle right now other than standard camping load out and stuff, would I be able to get away with the medium springs up front and the lighter springs in the back or would it be more advisable to keep it the same all the way around?

I have ARB skids which really aren't THAT heavy but they do add weight and budbuilt bump out sliders which are 80 something pounds a piece.

 

[BigredTEX]

With no real plans to add anything to the rear of the vehicle right now other than standard camping load out and stuff, would I be able to get away with the medium springs up front and the lighter springs in the back or would it be more advisable to keep it the same all the way around?

I have ARB skids which really aren't THAT heavy but they do add weight and budbuilt bump out sliders which are 80 something pounds a piece.

You can always experiment with the assistance of a friendly local shop. I'm fortunate to have friends in high places at one of the local 4Wheel Parts stores in my area. They let a friend try four different spring/shock combos on his Tacoma (equipped with bumper and winch for a strong front weight bias) before settling on the right combo. FYI, he felt even the softest of the OME springs was too stiff. As mentioned in the previous post, an adjustable system is the best solution, but also the most expensive.

 

[Logan714]

Do you want adjustability? If so, get the Toyotec Ultimate.

Yes, you need after market UCAs when lifting an IFS Toyota. You might be able tog to by with shitty caster angles, but really, FFS. You are driving a 30-40K vehicle, spend a fraction of a percent and get a proper adjustable UCA.

Thank you for the input. I'm still learning a lot of this stuff and was just wondering if the UCA's were actually necessary. I definitely have no problem spending the extra money if it's actually worth it.

You can always experiment with the assistance of a friendly local shop. I'm fortunate to have friends in high places at one of the local 4Wheel Parts stores in my area. They let a friend try four different spring/shock combos on his Tacoma (equipped with bumper and winch for a strong front weight bias) before settling on the right combo. FYI, he felt even the softest of the OME springs was too stiff. As mentioned in the previous post, an adjustable system is the best solution, but also the most expensive.

Thank you for your input as well. I guess it's time to start looking around here in San Diego or in Phoenix for a place that will let me play around.