New to the game (lift kit help)

[ironstorm181]

Hey guys, ive finally gotten rid of my 2wd and got a 1999 limited 4wd. it has right at 130k miles, 4wd works perfect and everything but ive always wanted to lift one. ive found several lift kits online but i dont know which one i should go with. also will i need any thing else to help with the lift such as diff drops or anything? I only want to fit like a 305 or 33/12.50 or something. To be honest it probally wont be doing much offroading except for hunting season. Lmk what yall think of the lift i posted below. Thanks!!!

http://www.toyteclifts.com/componen...ge/product/Complete_OME_sus_49fb1b1407e6b.jpg

 

[ironstorm181]

also how slow should i expect the 4runner to be after the new tires? its already pretty slow i was jus wondering if im going to be battling with the gas pedal everytime i go up a incline on a steep road or something? gears needed with daily driving with 33's?

 

[BucknutBob]

Given that the Limited has the fancier body, I'm assuming you don't intend to carve up the fenders for clearance--that means you'll need about 4" of lift for 33's, and yes, you absolutely need to regear for 33's (even for street driving). The norm is 4.88 with 33's--this will get you right back to stock for acceleration and speedometer reading. Since your link is nothing but a photo of shocks and springs, it doesn't tell us much about the kit--Toytec stuff is well-known and used often by forum members, so it's probably quality stuff. If you go 4", though, it will require other changes besides shocks and springs--longer brake lines, probably a T-case drop, etc.. Most major suspension companies stock full kits with everything needed.

 

[ironstorm181]

ahh i was hoping i might be ok with the stock gearing. the lift is an ome, this is the link i meant to send to ya sry

Complete OME suspension for 96-02 4Runner - 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

im just debating on whether or not i want to put all that money into it or not since ill have to open up the diffs now.

 

[BucknutBob]

You could make do with the stock gearing with 31's, and you would only need the basic lift stuff (so your tires don't grind the fenderwells at full articulation)--no brake lines or drop kits, etc.. Since you say your truck already feels slow, I'm guessing you have the 4-banger, and not the 3.4 V6? If so, you will definitely feel a difference in your acceleration, but it could be managed--just don't try hauling a 4000 lb. trailer!

 

[fourwd1]

The OME lifts are great, better ride and handling than new.
But 33" tires with only 3" of lift is going to create some rubbing.
Adding a 2" body lift too will get you some more room for them.

As for gearing, people have been running 33's with little 22R's and 22RE's and stock gearing for decades. There will be a loss of power and mpg, but most people are able to live with it. With your '99, you have a larger 4 cyl or 6 cyl, so you have more power to begin with. But again, with today's gas prices, regearing will bring that back. You can always try 33's, and regear later if you don't like the power and mpg loss.