Stationed in Germany...Suspension Questions

[salty-water]

Fellas,

Really need a gut check and some pointers so I get this right the first time around. I'm currently stationed overseas in Germany and my 4Runner finally arrived from the states in need of a few suspension tweaks.

I bought the 4Runner from a friend...and she's a beauty. 2000 Limited, 4x4 w/64,000 miles. 4Runner has seen little to no off-road use, but like others in this forum, the ride is pathetic compared to many other 2nd & 3rd generation yota trucks. I know, the 4Runner has a shorter wheelbase, etc... I was just a bit surprised by the poor ride.
Here's my thought/plans and I would greatly appreciate any input on this being my best option for a solid upgrade of my suspension, with just a little more height in the front.

1. Replace all the shocks (I think they're stock and just worn out) with the following Bilstein replacements:

- Front: BE5-F332-H0

- Rear: BE5-2451-H0

2. Replace the front and rear coil springs with a full 1999 model year:

- (2) rear springs: #48231-35210

- front (left) spring: #48131-35350

- front (right) spring: #48131-35400

3. Have a garage fit the new front coils and shocks, and just install the entire assembly with new mounts.

My friend was nice enough to install a brand new set of tires before shipping the vehicle for me: Michelin Cross Trail SUV P275/70R16 (Radial X).


My questions:

1- Am I on the right track?
2- Will I gain 1" with the 1999 model front springs?
3- Is this a stock re-fit and will the longer springs up front require any other mods other than a front end alignment?
4- Is this all a pretty forward install...or should I be aware of any problems?

Thank you all....I love the forum and really appreciate the help.

 

[brian2sun]

1- Am I on the right track? For the best ride (non-off road), I would say yes.
2- Will I gain 1" with the 1999 model front springs? At least, depending on how saggy your coils are now.
3- Is this a stock re-fit and will the longer springs up front require any other mods other than a front end alignment? Nope
4- Is this all a pretty forward install...or should I be aware of any problems? It's pretty straight forward. I suggest removing the bolts that hold the lower ball joints on to make it easier to get the struts in/out (no pressing needed, just take out the 4 bolts on each side and put em back in afterwards). This will give you much more room to access the lower shock bolt w/o the CV in the way.

....

 

[notrayray]

You may not want to just leave your VIN number laying around on the internets. :lookout: