Need Help!! Bilstein 5100 front shock install question

[jc0019]

I installed my Bilstein 5100 front shocks today using the no compressor method. When i was putting away my OEM shocks, I see there is a washer there (see below picture). Do I also need to transfer this washer to the new Bilstein shock?
I searched online and Bilstein install instruction, it didn't say anything about this washer.

For the 5100 front shock, which option below is correct?
Order is from the bottom to top of the shock.

1) shock -washer - bushing - top hat - bushing - washer - nut
or
2) shock - top hat - bushing - washer -nut

If #1 is correct, my guess is the bushing got stuck to the top hat bottom and I didn't see it. I'll need to reinstall again.

 

[jc0019]

I found an OEM suspension diagram online.
I guess my questions is do I need to install item #9 (washer) on below diagram to Bilstein 5100 front shock.

 

[1000MPH]

Yes. #1. You need the washer. Aka the "front shock absorber cushion retainer".
You can see the lower rubber bushing is attached to the inside of the top hat on this KYB replacement.

 

[gm350reratliff]

I will also agree that you need that washer. It sucks but you will need to remove the 5100 completely to get that washer on there. Don't worry, we've all been there on one project or another.

 

[jc0019]

Thanks, so the lower bushing is part of the top hat and i think that is the reason I didn't see the lower bushing. I guess I'll take it apart today AGAIN to install the washer.

Yes. #1. You need the washer. Aka the "front shock absorber cushion retainer".
You can see the lower rubber bushing is attached to the inside of the top hat on this KYB replacement.

 

[CZ-4Runner]

I installed my Bilstein 5100 front shocks today using the no compressor method. When i was putting away my OEM shocks, I see there is a washer there (see below picture). Do I also need to transfer this washer to the new Bilstein shock?
I searched online and Bilstein install instruction, it didn't say anything about this washer.

For the 5100 front shock, which option below is correct?
Order is from the bottom to top of the shock.

1) shock -washer - bushing - top hat - bushing - washer - nut
or
2) shock - top hat - bushing - washer -nut

If #1 is correct, my guess is the bushing got stuck to the top hat bottom and I didn't see it. I'll need to reinstall again.

I'm sorry but what the "no compressors" method? I'm installing the rear right now actually. Just waiting for the springs to dry (painted red), came apart easy. Should have everything together tomorrow. Then I'll be starting the front. Using OEM coils over 5100 adjusted to 1.75. I was sure the only way was to rent those coil springs clamps and be very careful. Thank you.

 

[CZ-4Runner]

Just found it on youtube. I actually like this method. It will avoid jacking up my paint job when I paint those coil covers as well.

http://youtu.be/vkVLBOnAifc

 

[1000MPH]

Thanks, so the lower bushing is part of the top hat and i think that is the reason I didn't see the lower bushing. I guess I'll take it apart today AGAIN to install the washer.

Make sure the bushing is still in good condition. Did you use the shock covers?
If not, at the very least you could pushed the top of the shock body into the bushing and it may have split.

 

[jc0019]

Yes, i use the shock cover that came with the new bilstein 5100. I'll inspect the top hat bushing when i reinstall it, hopefully it is ok. Thanks.

Make sure the bushing is still in good condition. Did you use the shock covers?
If not, at the very least you could pushed the top of the shock body into the bushing and it may have split.

 

[jc0019]

Here is another video that I use.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5E6u7dC7EHg

Just found it on youtube. I actually like this method. It will avoid jacking up my paint job when I paint those coil covers as well.

http://youtu.be/vkVLBOnAifc

 

[CZ-4Runner]

Here is another video that I use.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5E6u7dC7EHg

Just watched it, thank you Sir. I'll be going that route. Hopefully that rear goes back together as smooth as it came apart so I can move onto the front today.

 

[ToolUser1]

reminder

Warning on the installation - when reinstalling the front struts the service manual describes the correct orientation for the lower spring platform. I almost forgot to get the orientation right when I did it last weekend. Maybe it makes a difference, maybe it doesn't, but can't hurt to do it the "correct" way.

Good luck.

 

[CZ-4Runner]

I marked my springs with the top part of the coilcovers that remained bolted to the vehicle. I plan on putting them in the exact same way they came off. Are you folks keeping that black plastic shaft boot on or removing it. I see where some setups have it within the coils and others don't. If you are keeping the plastic boot, I'm assuming the nylon washer is to just keep it in place for shipping perposes?

 

[manganos]

I kept it on. "shock boot" that is

 

[jc0019]

What is the correct orientation? Do you have a pic?
Thanks.

Warning on the installation - when reinstalling the front struts the service manual describes the correct orientation for the lower spring platform. I almost forgot to get the orientation right when I did it last weekend. Maybe it makes a difference, maybe it doesn't, but can't hurt to do it the "correct" way.

Good luck.

 

[CZ-4Runner]

What is the correct orientation? Do you have a pic?
Thanks.

Only if I new how to post pics in here from my phone. Anyway.. before taking mine apart, I noted and marked that the OEM coil spring ends/tips were facing towards me on the driver side and away from me on the passanger side. Hope this makes sense.

 

[1000MPH]

There are 2 useful pdfs in the first post of this 4th gen write up.
http://www.toyota-4runner.org/engin...in-5100-install-tips-tricks-help-you-out.html

 

[CZ-4Runner]

I'm done! Wasn't bad at all, KDSS included. I could have probably knocked it out in 6 hours or so if I didn't have a daughter that wanted to keep playing and had I not decided to paint the coils. That added a day to both front and back waiting for the stuff to dry.