So the next morning( well afternoon, i slept till 1pm) i got out of bed and decided to install the front coil overs. It went in really well to start with. Much easier than the rears that's for sure. A side by side comparison of these new suspension components are unbelievable.
Do you notice on this picture there is no rubber bushing on the lower eyelet bolt, it helps improve handling and less flex vertical flex in that joint, ultimately transferring the energy into the spring and shock.
The fronts went in easy. Remove sway bar links, loosen UCA bolt so that is spins (the bolt not just the nut) then by using the factory jack I cranked it open and used it to force the UCA down and the shock came right out. Very easy.
My problem now is that my spanner wrench is not able to get very far while the coil overs are on the truck because it hits the UCA ball joint or the shock tower. Might have to pull them out, go to the shop and use the spring compressor Then crank the preload down another inch.
So far I've driven it about 5 miles on the new suspension (still haven't hooked up sway bars yet) and holy smokes does she rock back and forth. I thought the ride would be a bit more stiff than what it is but it is very plush. Does not ride like a truck at all. A car with loads of wheel travel is more like it.
Tomorrow my plans follow as this. Install front sway bar end links (broke last one while wheeling) from a 94 4runner because I hear they are longer and fit better for lifts. (I installed my rears today).
Then I have to crank down those coil overs and get an alignment soon. It doesn't drive very bad at all right now. Tracks straight, turns so easy, easier than before.
With my 1.5" wheel spacer I get a little rubbing as half turn and minimal compression from the tire on the fender bolt. I can live with it for now.
So stay tuned for a final picture and updates with this ride.
To come: Power washer VS. Carpet stains. ( more sound mat instillation too)
