So Frustrated - suspension question

[elester12]

Hello All,

I'm new here so please go easy on me! I recently purchased a 2004 V8 limited 4runner with 52,000 miles for my wife. 1 month after the purchase I find out 3 of my shocks are leaking (Xreas system).

I've been reading and reading on this site about FJ springs\5100 shocks and I am overwhelmed. I can't decide what to do!

I have a few questions:

A) Will the alignment specs change if I change out the springs and shocks to an FJ setup?

B) What setting do I set the front and rear shocks at if I'm using the adjustable 5100's?

C) This truck is for my wife (AKA Soccer mom). Would it be better to purchase the Heavy duty shocks versus the 5100's and keep the original springs? It seems its become much harder to find the FJ springs.

Thanks for any advise!

 

[ARK_SWAMP_RIDER]

You will need an alignment after the shock install but wouldn't have any trouble getting it into spec. Are you after any lift or do you just want the front level? Only the front 5100s are adjustable. I'd measure the fender gap and go from there, use either the second our third notch (.85 or 1.75) to level it out. Fj springs definitely improve the ride, its recommend waiting on a set. If you plan to be at stock height on the rear you can use the hd shocks because they have the same specs as the 5100 rears only stock length. Is definitely use 5100 fronts. If you decide you want the hd rear shocks, I've got a pair I'll sell that have about 15k miles on them. Pm met if you're interested.

 

[webby]

If you are going to rip out the XREAS system and put in different shocks, since this is for your wife to drive, I'd be careful about what shocks you install. I haven't had them on either of my own 4Runners, but from what I have read here on various threads, I think Bilsteins might be stiffer than your OEM suspension. I'm sure others here can advise you on that.

I certainly don't know your wife or her preference in ride quality. But I'm sure that you don't want to go to the expense to replace the XREAS system with different shocks, and have your wife complaining that it rides too hard, and have to change it again!

 

[ARK_SWAMP_RIDER]

Bilsteins are more stiff, but from my experience that's a good thing. IMO it rides way better. Bumps in the road aren't as noticeable, that's the biggest thing I noticed.

 

[Doozi]

I have 2010 FJ Cruiser shocks (the black-bodied, base level 4x4 shocks) with 895 miles on them that I would sell very cheap + shipping if you were interested... I used the FJ coils on my stock XREAS shocks so I didn't need them. Because they are 2010 model year, the lower mount has to be modified... to what extent, I don't remember, but I know that a couple of people have used them. From what I remember, they are a little softer than the OEM FJ Bilstein shocks so that might actually be a good thing on stock coils. I'm sure that others will have some insight.

PM me if your interested.
~Doozi

 

[elester12]

I think I'll go with the 5100's for the fronts. So are the HD's and the 5100 rear shocks the same thing? I know my wife would prefer handling/safety vs soft/smooth rides.

The reason I ask if I can keep the existing springs is because I can't find FJ springs anywhere! I'd like to do the install next week before the tires on this truck are destroyed.

SO 5100 fronts, FJ springs, and the rear could either be HD's or 5100?

Are the FJ springs drop in's or will I have to preform modifications (long as they're not from 2010 FJ's)

What about bushings? I hear people like to replace those. They dont sound too hard to replace. Any recommendations?


Thanks for all the advice guys. I'm just trying to make a decision and order something asap.

 

[ARK_SWAMP_RIDER]

The front 5100s and hds have different valve rates, but the rear ones are valved the same. The only difference on the rear shocks is that the hds are stock length and the 5100s are 2" longer for lifted applications.

There are several sets of the springs on fjcruiserforums.com but they are pricey. You may try craigslist. Any year 07+ coils will work, its only the shocks that changed in the later models. You can keep the existing springs, no issues there. Both the 5100s and fj springs will firm up the ride, so only the new shocks may be better for you if that's a concern.

I've heard about the bushings, no experience with them though. From what I hear they help with body roll and seem to be worth the money.

 

[elester12]

Thanks for the help guys! So far I was able to obtain the FJ cruiser springs and I ordered the 5100's.

Is there anything I need to be aware of when installing these springs or shocks? Any components I should change while I'm in there?

As far as spring removal I'm assuming i could obtain spring compressors at an automotive shop? Does anyone know the torque specs?

Thanks again guys! this is why I love forums! Eliminates the dealer!