Purely "techincal"

[RaginTxn84]

I'm already dreading the responses that I can see coming from this question - but please, go easy on me eep:

So I've purchased 5100 bilstein shocks - looking at the OME springs (as some may already know). From a purely technical stand point - will I gain any greater off-roading performance from getting the springs with the spacers for a full 3" lift, or will the 2.5" suffice. As a note - I'm not looking for crossing the rockies off-road capabilities (I would have done with a much more "all-out" system from Icon or such) - but something close to/better than a TRD system (if TRD offered one on for the 5th gens), I will be putting on 285/70/17s eventually (probably not until oct/nov time frame), and most likely the only other suspension thing I will do are a set of LR UCAs.

Again - I am just looking at the pure technical/performance aspect of this - thanks for the help

 

[Stifler]

technically speaking a 1/2 inch aint gonna do shit except put you closer to the mark of needing UCAs:yo:

 

[1engineer]

Nope. From what you are saying the 5100's and 285's will give you the most for a regular 4Runner. The heavier springs are needed if you expect to hang another 1000 lbs in bumpers, skids, rails, racks, winch, etc on there. Otherwise, 5100's and tires.

 

[RaginTxn84]

thnx everyone for your input - I'm looking at the 884 fronts and super flex rear, however i've seen a lot like the 895E out back - experience with both? comparisons? Does the extra flex in the Super Flex springs provide better trailing over the 895Es? The Super Flexs also state "10% increase above stock capacity and spring rate for the best ride and flex" - I really don't know what that translates to as far as off-road. Most of the 895Es that I have read where on 4th gens - don't know how they behave on 5ths.

greg - i plan on putting on a gobi rack, at least the engine plate - probably the trany and tcase eventually, and some lights (PIAA fog and a rigid light bar when I get the rack), second battery once I'm ready for the lights. Bumper is a maybe, but wouldn't be for a while (like probably next year).

Camping, occasional rabbit chase across the big horn basin in WY (when I'm up there), trails where I can find them - not really anything terribly serious.

I'll be ordering tomorrow, so any last bit of input would be greatly appreciated. I'll be quiet now.

 

[1engineer]

The problem with the stiffer springs is the harsher ride if no real weight is added. While it soulds nice living with it day in and day out is tough. Adding what you listed above is about what I weigh lol. Not enough IMO to need aftermarket springs. Off road, upgraded shocks are the priority over springs unless, again, you are adding real weight. Your call and good luck!

 

[RaginTxn84]

So, if I leave the OEM springs - will I still have the nose diving when I brake and accelerate, and the roll? Also, If I just have the shocks, will I still get the 2.5" and 2.0" lift?

Thank you so much again for your input!

 

[1engineer]

So, if I leave the OEM springs - will I still have the nose diving when I brake and accelerate, and the roll? Also, If I just have the shocks, will I still get the 2.5" and 2.0" lift?

Thank you so much again for your input!

Brake bias is one of the reasons we have "nosedive" with the 4Runner and the bias is essential for control. The shock tuning and response will lessen the nosedive but not completely do away with it. Shocks dampen movement from the springs. Every single vehicle I have ever driven has nose dive during braking. Some worse than others. Try the 5100's and if not satisfied then go to the heavier springs. I would not go the spring route unless I was adding a buttload of weight though because, let's face it, 99.9% of the time for most is on the road hitting potholes and speed bumps at the mall.

 

[RaginTxn84]

great - thanks for the help - I'll go with the 5100s and see how I like 'em before spending more $$$$

Also read your post on shocks and springs - great read - things make a lot more sense then just "buying a kit"

Thanks again for the time