New rear shocks. But I don't want a big lift difference.

[Christiantdoug]

My rear shocks are starting to sag a tad from loading things in the rear constantly. This summer I am also planning on hauling around a landscaping trailer.

Now here's my question. I would like to get some new shocks to handle these loads. Now I don't know if a stiffer shock would handle the weights and solve this or what? So that is what I'm asking you. Bilsteins ? 5100's? Just tell me what you personally think. I know that its almost preference, but it's not like I can test drive each set.

Also I do not want much extra height than stock. 1" or 1.25" higher is fine.

 

[PitbullRescuer]

Your shocks aren't sagging, your springs are. Good idea to replace the shocks while you're back there though.

 

[Christiantdoug]

Your shocks aren't sagging, your springs are. Good idea to replace the shocks while you're back there though.

Okay, well now that I know what would be the better aftermarket set to get? Or do I want to stay stock?

 

[02_SE_Runner]

Shocks have nothing to do with sag or even lift. What you are wanting is new SPRINGS which will get rid of your sag. Try getting some 99 highlander coils if you want around 1" lift in the rear, and spacers up front if you want 1" up front as well. Also some air assist bags if you are wanting to go towing stuff could help. You shouldn't need longer throw shocks since you the 99 coils only lift about an inch.
Also if you want to get new shocks while you are at it, you can, but you wouldn't need longer shocks if you aren't lifting.
Read this for info about lift and the 99 highlander coils:
http://www.toyota-4runner.org/3rd-gen-t4rs/66976-3rd-gen-4runner-lift-information-faq-s.html
Air Assist bags:
Firestone rear airbags - Toytec Lifts: Toyota Lift Kits: FJ Cruiser Lift Kits, Tacoma Lift Kits, Tundra Lift Kits, 4 Runner Lift Kits, Sequoia Lift Kits, Toyota Truck Lift Kits
Spacers up front 3/4" to bring you up in the front for a level stance:
Front Top Plate Spacer Kit - Toytec Lifts: Toyota Lift Kits: FJ Cruiser Lift Kits, Tacoma Lift Kits, Tundra Lift Kits, 4 Runner Lift Kits, Sequoia Lift Kits, Toyota Truck Lift Kits

The 99 Highlander Springs
If you want a small lift or have worn out springs, a good option might be to change out your springs for springs from the 1999 4Runner Highlander Edition. these springs sat 1" higher than any other 3rd Gen 4Runner. They can be ordered online or at a Toyota dealer.

99 spring part numbers:
Front Passenger Side Springs - Blue / Yellow (48131-35400)
Front Driver Side Springs - Blue / Pink (48131 - 35350)
Both Rear Springs - Yellow / Red (48231 - 35210)

Pros: Fairly inexpensive, OEM ride quality.
Cons: Small amount of lift. (might be all you want)

Okay, well now that I know what would be the better aftermarket set to get? Or do I want to stay stock?

Stock? What's that? lol Go aftermarket better shocks. Such as KYB's.

 

[BrianSD_42]

If you aren't doing a full lift then just get Stock aka OEM coils and shocks.

Order the parts online from Camelback Toyota or one of the other online dealers.

For a stock setup, aftermarket are not really superior, meaning a Bilstien stock equivilent replacement is not going to be somehow better than OEM.

The stock ride on these vehicles is quite nice. If that is what you prefer then don't use aftermarket parts.

 

[Christiantdoug]

Thank you guys!

 

[IanB]

Sounds like you want some OME 906 rear springs, they can handle the extra weight you want to carry without sagging, and gives about 1.5" of lift over non-sagged stock springs, nothing else needs to be changed to use these springs (although some new shocks are probably a good idea while you're at it). If you search there's lots of info on these here. $160/set at:

Old Man Emu Suspension for Toyota 4Runner Trucks- Wheeler's Off-Road, Inc