Options for Upgrading Non-KDSS Suspension on a TE

[jerlane]

OK, I'm starting a new thread to specifically address possible suspension upgrade if I decide not to wait for KDSS and get a TE without. The other thread has gotten a big bogged down discussing KDSS (which was my original question).

So, I will be off-road rarely, unless circumstances change and I move back to Colorado. I'm mainly looking to inprove on-road handling with the bonus of improved off-road ability when the occassion arises. I'm planning on upgrading the tires most likely to General Grabber AT2's 265/70 17's and may add the Spidertrax spacers. I'm not 100% set on the spacers.

I'm admittedly a novice when it comes to suspension mods. I've heard alot about Bilstein 5100's. Given my needs, would that be a reasonable option? If so, all four, or just the fronts? Any other ideas?

Thanks in advance. BTW, I did do a search!

 

[1engineer]

For you, the Bilsteins and better tires will be fine. It will stiffen up the suspension a little and lessen the body roll. Cheapest way to go.

 

[jerlane]

For you, the Bilsteins and better tires will be fine. It will stiffen up the suspension a little and lessen the body roll. Cheapest way to go.

Front and back?

 

[phillyd2]

What specifically about the stock suspension and tires do you not like?

 

[Jtraskell]

Front and back?

I would first go with tires only. I would suggest LT tires, C or D load. Unless your climbing rocks or hauling concrete in the back, E load is a bit over kill IMHO.

Try that first and see how your vehicle handles. Then, if you need more, go with the Bilstiens. You MIGHT be able to get away with just the fronts. I would put all four in because I am anal. The front's are adjustable, as I Understand it, the backs are not. But again, may not be necessary at all.

As Phillyd2 asked, what do you not like right now?

I can understand tires....but anything else with only1% off road might be a waste of money. Tires ONLY solved my concerns. But, tires and shocks will guarantee MOST people will be happy. Just depends.

The point here, do one thing at a time, then see how you like it. Then go up from there if necessary.

I really do not think you need spacers unless you are looking for a certain look. Just my 2 cents. Be safe.

 

[jerlane]

I guess I should clarify (I had this in my other post), I ordered a TE with KDSS two months ago and nothing is on the radar yet. Another dealer has one without KDSS and I'm considering that one. With the savings on the KDSS I could upgrade the suspension and do some other things. I will be upgrading the tires regardless. I can't comment on what I don't about the suspension, but am going off of what others have said.

Thanks for all the comments so far.

 

[1engineer]

I guess I should clarify (I had this in my other post), I ordered a TE with KDSS two months ago and nothing is on the radar yet. Another dealer has one without KDSS and I'm considering that one. With the savings on the KDSS I could upgrade the suspension and do some other things. I will be upgrading the tires regardless. I can't comment on what I don't about the suspension, but am going off of what others have said.

Thanks for all the comments so far.

Do what Jtraskell so logically wrote:
1. Buy new tires. If satisfied, stop. If not, then
2. Put new front Bilstein 5100 shocks on. If satisfied, stop. If not, then
3. Put new rear Bilstein 5100 shocks on. If satisfied, stop. If not, then
4. Start looking at new coilovers and upper control arms.

You really, really just need to get your vehicle first and drive it a lot. Over time if you have any complaints just voice them here and someone knowledgable will help. Some of the mods you are reading about on suspension are for off road capability. Some are just guys who like the "look" of offroad vehicles mod them and never even go over a curb at the mall. Some guys are perfectly happy with stock setup and take it offroad as is with no issues. The biggest thing though is it is a body on frame vehicle and no matter what you do it will not handle like a BMW M5. Ever.

 

[UFG8R Runner]

:iagree:

Am I the only one who loves how 1Engineer breaks everything into a logical IF -> THEN scenario?

 

[Jtraskell]

Yep, your the only one......:ybrick:

 

[Ttn333]

:iagree:

Am I the only one who loves how 1Engineer breaks everything into a logical IF -> THEN scenario?

I've come to discover as I get older, that the voice of reason (and logic) is just not very exciting or fun.

 

[Xterra]

OK, I'm starting a new thread to specifically address possible suspension upgrade if I decide not to wait for KDSS and get a TE without. The other thread has gotten a big bogged down discussing KDSS (which was my original question).

So, I will be off-road rarely, unless circumstances change and I move back to Colorado. I'm mainly looking to inprove on-road handling with the bonus of improved off-road ability when the occassion arises. I'm planning on upgrading the tires most likely to General Grabber AT2's 265/70 17's and may add the Spidertrax spacers. I'm not 100% set on the spacers.

I'm admittedly a novice when it comes to suspension mods. I've heard alot about Bilstein 5100's. Given my needs, would that be a reasonable option? If so, all four, or just the fronts? Any other ideas?

Thanks in advance. BTW, I did do a search!

If you're only occasionally going off-road, skip the general grabbers and go for an AT tire with better on-road handling - like the Firestone Destination A/T.

I'd also suggest just getting the passenger grade P-rated load range tire as anything heavier will affect your gas mileage. If you're not towing anything heavy or planning on loading up your four-runner with skids, sliders, aftermarket bumpers, etc. then you don't need a tire rated for such loads.