Stock suspension equivalent?

[RoyBell]

After more research on springs, it appears not ALL 99s have tall springs. My part numbers did not match what everyone else was listing as "tall 99" springs.

So, tall springs are listed below. They are also quite a bit more than the standard '99 Limited springs

$107 FR Springs - Blue / Yellow (48131-35400) Passenger Side
$114 FL Springs - Blue / Pink (48131 - 35350) Driver Side
$160 REAR Sprigs - Yellow / Red (48231 - 35210)

Total:
$380 plus $30 shipping. Ouch.

 

[1985taylor1925]

I ordered new OEM shocks, off Ebay. Seller claimed they are OEM from Toyota. Comes with bushings and nuts. I will have to inspect carefully to confirm before mounting.

$300 shipped with tax.

KYBs were about $85 less. For $85, I am not going to beat my head against the wall wondering if the stock shocks are better or not. We know the OEM last to 150K miles.

Springs will be 99 in the back. Front, still debating on Tacoma or 4R. I am a little concerned putting progressive springs up front without them in the back. Thoughts?

Sellers spring prices were more than you could buy through an online retailer which has me concerned. How can his shocks be less, and springs almost double?

After more research on springs, it appears not ALL 99s have tall springs. My part numbers did not match what everyone else was listing as "tall 99" springs.

So, tall springs are listed below. They are also quite a bit more than the standard '99 Limited springs

$107 FR Springs - Blue / Yellow (48131-35400) Passenger Side
$114 FL Springs - Blue / Pink (48131 - 35350) Driver Side
$160 REAR Sprigs - Yellow / Red (48231 - 35210)

Total:
$380 plus $30 shipping. Ouch.

Sounds like a good plan. I wouldn't hesitate to go with the oem Tokico shocks. Although the Rancho adjustable shocks arent that much more than what you ordered.

I would keep looking for the coils in the mean time. They come available on the forum frequently. Could also find a set on craigslist. For new coils, camelback toyota is a good option. If you are concerned about the difference between Taco progressives and 99 fixed rate in the rear, I say just go with 99s all around and be done with it. Personally, suspension is an ongoing experiment for me (or at least is was before I got sick) so I would try the Taco coils, and if I didnt like them would switch back to my current 99 coils.

 

[RoyBell]

Sounds like a good plan. I wouldn't hesitate to go with the oem Tokico shocks. Although the Rancho adjustable shocks arent that much more than what you ordered.

I would keep looking for the coils in the mean time. They come available on the forum frequently. Could also find a set on craigslist. For new coils, camelback toyota is a good option. If you are concerned about the difference between Taco progressives and 99 fixed rate in the rear, I say just go with 99s all around and be done with it. Personally, suspension is an ongoing experiment for me (or at least is was before I got sick) so I would try the Taco coils, and if I didnt like them would switch back to my current 99 coils.

Considering the age of these vehicles, I see no point in going with used springs. Yea, I am on a budget, but putting worn springs on makes no sense to me when I am looking for the best handling. At the end of the day, oem vs aftermarket only appears to be about $200 or less difference if you shop around.

The difference is the OEM setup was designed for the actual vehicle. When searching part numbers, it appears the shocks and springs are only specific for a 4runner.

I've been a member on Tacoma Forums since '08. Camelback Toyota is a sponsor there so I PM'd them to see if they can help me on the price of the springs.

 

[RoyBell]

I have updated the first post with part numbers and prices. I googled vins for 2001 TRD and 1999 4x4 and posted the associated springs/shocks for each.

I am wondering if the 1999 springs on the Tacoma are taller than the 2001 Springs.

 

[1985taylor1925]

I have updated the first post with part numbers and prices. I googled vins for 2001 TRD and 1999 4x4 and posted the associated springs/shocks for each.

I am wondering if the 1999 springs on the Tacoma are taller than the 2001 Springs.

This looks like a great deal for Taco progressive coils. Don't know the mileage, but he says feel free to ask any questions. They look really clean.

Toyota Tacoma Tokico Shocks and Coil Springs Completely Assembled 95 04 4WD | eBay


I know you're not that interested in a used coil, but man for that price if you didn't like the coils you could probably turn around and sell them for the same price he's asking.

 

[1985taylor1925]

I have updated the first post with part numbers and prices. I googled vins for 2001 TRD and 1999 4x4 and posted the associated springs/shocks for each.

I am wondering if the 1999 springs on the Tacoma are taller than the 2001 Springs.

I haven't been able to find that info about the Toyota OEM coils. But as OE replacements I would imagine the Moog coils are identical to OEM. I don't know the difference between 99 and 02 Taco coils, but I figured the difference between 4runner and Taco coils would be useful info. The specs I found:

1999 4runner Moog coils:
Length: 14.31"
Spring rate: 595lbs

2002 Tacoma Moog coils:
Length: 14.69"
Spring rate: 465lbs

I looked through all the part numbers for both applications, and these are the tallest available coils for the 4x4 4runner, and the tallest for the 4x4 Tacoma. So the Tacos are a little taller, but softer. But you mentioned in your first post that you felt your truck rides soft, so 99s are probably your best bet after all.

 

[2nd3rdGen]

My first 2000 I had the same issues, sagging rear end probably from lots of towing and hauling gear and a sloppy ride (imo). I used stock replacement Bilsteins which really helped the handling and stability, without being too firm for my liking.

I used OEM coils in the rear (you said you wanted OEM, why not OEM?!) and didn’t replace the front since it wasn’t sagging. This was good enough for me at the time and drove it well over 100k miles like that!

BUT, if you ever think you may be interested in going for a lift down the road, I would consider doing it this time around to save you from doing this job twice.

 

[RoyBell]

So I got my shocks today. They look to be genuine. The part numbers don't match the ad though, and neither match what I have for OEM. However, it does come up as a compatible shock for my 4runner. I am debating contacting seller and seeing what they say about different part numbers.

It looks like the parts were sold to this Toyota dealership and they put them on ebay then.

All 4 shocks were $300 shipped with tax (they are located in the same state). Looks like he has relisted another set:

Genuine Toyota 1999 4Runner Front Struts Rear Shocks Strut Set OE | eBay

All packaging looks OEM with OEM plastic that hasn't been opened.

2015-11-04_02-50-17 by RoyBelluomini, on Flickr

This looks like a great deal for Taco progressive coils. Don't know the mileage, but he says feel free to ask any questions. They look really clean.

Toyota Tacoma Tokico Shocks and Coil Springs Completely Assembled 95 04 4WD | eBay

I know you're not that interested in a used coil, but man for that price if you didn't like the coils you could probably turn around and sell them for the same price he's asking.

I emailed asking if he knew mileage. Shocks look beat. I would take a used spring over a used shock. It would be easier to just take the whole assembly to a place and have them swap springs (or shocks in my case) and then just do an easy swap at home and not deal with a suicide stick or down time.

I haven't been able to find that info about the Toyota OEM coils. But as OE replacements I would imagine the Moog coils are identical to OEM. I don't know the difference between 99 and 02 Taco coils, but I figured the difference between 4runner and Taco coils would be useful info. The specs I found:

1999 4runner Moog coils:
Length: 14.31"
Spring rate: 595lbs

2002 Tacoma Moog coils:
Length: 14.69"
Spring rate: 465lbs

I looked through all the part numbers for both applications, and these are the tallest available coils for the 4x4 4runner, and the tallest for the 4x4 Tacoma. So the Tacos are a little taller, but softer. But you mentioned in your first post that you felt your truck rides soft, so 99s are probably your best bet after all.

My truck rides soft, but it has 160K miles. I think the taller softer springs on the tacoma have to do with the rear leaf springs. I can only assume they will assume more weight in the back of a truck which maybe softer springs up front would counteract it, whereas the 4runner will have more cargo closer to the front springs (passenger) which is why they are a bit stiffer...plus the inherit design of the springs in the back of the 4R which would not take as much weight as the leafs. That would require the fronts to take more of the load.

I am not a suspension engineer, but just a theory. I also would take moogs springs/heights with a grain of salt vs oem as far as capacities are concerned.

My first 2000 I had the same issues, sagging rear end probably from lots of towing and hauling gear and a sloppy ride (imo). I used stock replacement Bilsteins which really helped the handling and stability, without being too firm for my liking.

I used OEM coils in the rear (you said you wanted OEM, why not OEM?!) and didn’t replace the front since it wasn’t sagging. This was good enough for me at the time and drove it well over 100k miles like that!

BUT, if you ever think you may be interested in going for a lift down the road, I would consider doing it this time around to save you from doing this job twice.

I likely will never be lifting this.

 

[1985taylor1925]

So I got my shocks today. They look to be genuine. The part numbers don't match the ad though, and neither match what I have for OEM. However, it does come up as a compatible shock for my 4runner. I am debating contacting seller and seeing what they say about different part numbers.

I don't know about differences in part numbers, unless they go by year? But those are definitely OEM Tokicos. I can see Tokico on the one.

I emailed asking if he knew mileage. Shocks look beat. I would take a used spring over a used shock. It would be easier to just take the whole assembly to a place and have them swap springs (or shocks in my case) and then just do an easy swap at home and not deal with a suicide stick or down time.

I bought my spring compressor tool on harbor freight I believe. Have used it many times and never had an issue. There is also another way to separate the assembly by removing the 4 bolts on the lower ball joint. I tried this method the last time I messed with my 99/5100s. It works well and is very safe, but takes awhile. Anyway, having a shop do it is certainly more convenient.

 

[RoyBell]

I don't know about differences in part numbers, unless they go by year? But those are definitely OEM Tokicos. I can see Tokico on the one.



I bought my spring compressor tool on harbor freight I believe. Have used it many times and never had an issue. There is also another way to separate the assembly by removing the 4 bolts on the lower ball joint. I tried this method the last time I messed with my 99/5100s. It works well and is very safe, but takes awhile. Anyway, having a shop do it is certainly more convenient.

When you say separate the assembly, do you mean remove the strut as one piece or remove the spring from the strut?

I've played with those spring compressors too many times. Pretty much any auto store will rent them no charge. HF is down the block from me and I always see the strut compressors that look safer than the sticks.

I wasn't sure how far knockoffs go. I figured the imprint in the base of the shock was a pretty good indication they were real. I saved $100 (aside from shipping and tax) buying on ebay vs the online toyota stores. Pretty good deal

 

[1985taylor1925]

When you say separate the assembly, do you mean remove the strut as one piece or remove the spring from the strut?

I've played with those spring compressors too many times. Pretty much any auto store will rent them no charge. HF is down the block from me and I always see the strut compressors that look safer than the sticks.

I wasn't sure how far knockoffs go. I figured the imprint in the base of the shock was a pretty good indication they were real. I saved $100 (aside from shipping and tax) buying on ebay vs the online toyota stores. Pretty good deal

I mean separate the coil/strut assembly. I've done it quite a few times. I just take my time. But here's what I did the last time I separated them


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vkVLBOnAifc


Except I didn't need to loosen the control bolts

 

[RoyBell]

I mean separate the coil/strut assembly. I've done it quite a few times. I just take my time. But here's what I did the last time I separated them


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vkVLBOnAifc


Except I didn't need to loosen the control bolts

wow. That certainly is a method I would never had thought of. Just unbolt the LCA and the whole thing comes apart? I am a little concerned that the top nut might need a little more persuasion to get off than in the video.

 

[shahsmerdis]

So I got my shocks today. They look to be genuine. The part numbers don't match the ad though, and neither match what I have for OEM. However, it does come up as a compatible shock for my 4runner. I am debating contacting seller and seeing what they say about different part numbers.

It looks like the parts were sold to this Toyota dealership and they put them on ebay then.

All 4 shocks were $300 shipped with tax (they are located in the same state). Looks like he has relisted another set:

Genuine Toyota 1999 4Runner Front Struts Rear Shocks Strut Set OE | eBay

All packaging looks OEM with OEM plastic that hasn't been opened.

2015-11-04_02-50-17 by RoyBelluomini, on Flickr



I emailed asking if he knew mileage. Shocks look beat. I would take a used spring over a used shock. It would be easier to just take the whole assembly to a place and have them swap springs (or shocks in my case) and then just do an easy swap at home and not deal with a suicide stick or down time.



My truck rides soft, but it has 160K miles. I think the taller softer springs on the tacoma have to do with the rear leaf springs. I can only assume they will assume more weight in the back of a truck which maybe softer springs up front would counteract it, whereas the 4runner will have more cargo closer to the front springs (passenger) which is why they are a bit stiffer...plus the inherit design of the springs in the back of the 4R which would not take as much weight as the leafs. That would require the fronts to take more of the load.

I am not a suspension engineer, but just a theory. I also would take moogs springs/heights with a grain of salt vs oem as far as capacities are concerned.



I likely will never be lifting this.

What are the list of part numbers? I just ordered the fronts from dallas toyota. it came out to 150 $.


the link you PM'ed me expired I didn't realize they reposted Eeek!

Will this fit 2002 4runner?

 

[1985taylor1925]

wow. That certainly is a method I would never had thought of. Just unbolt the LCA and the whole thing comes apart? I am a little concerned that the top nut might need a little more persuasion to get off than in the video.

The only issue I've had with getting things apart is rust from the mid west winters. Using the method above, the whole process took me around 3.5 hrs. It should have been closer to a 2~hr job (hr per side). For the top nut, there is a section at the top of the shock shaft for a wrench. I believe it's a 8 or 10mm. Put a wrench on that to get the nut off. I've learned that spraying penetrating oil on all the rusty parts two days before, and then again the day before makes a world of difference. Also a good sized hammer!

 

[shahsmerdis]

The only issue I've had with getting things apart is rust from the mid west winters. Using the method above, the whole process took me around 3.5 hrs. It should have been closer to a 2~hr job (hr per side). For the top nut, there is a section at the top of the shock shaft for a wrench. I believe it's a 8 or 10mm. Put a wrench on that to get the nut off. I've learned that spraying penetrating oil on all the rusty parts two days before, and then again the day before makes a world of difference. Also a good sized hammer!

hahah, my mechanic said the top nut sheered off because of the rust. I guess you can rust do the job for you too =P.

 

[RoyBell]

I ended up ordering up OEM front and rear springs for a 4R. So..I ended up with exactly what I Was trying to buy, but for cheaper aftermarket...Didn't work lol. I just got an email today saying the parts are out of stock and should arrive in a week. We will see how that pans out.

I also ordered the trd rear sway bar for my Tundra as well since they had it the cheapest. Hoping it improves handling and helps towing.

Now we wait some more.

 

[xcvgi]

My searching has come up with the following. Most people are happy with the KYB shocks, and OEM rear coils. I have a '99. What do people do for the front springs?

 

[1985taylor1925]

I ended up ordering up OEM front and rear springs for a 4R. So..I ended up with exactly what I Was trying to buy, but for cheaper aftermarket...Didn't work lol. I just got an email today saying the parts are out of stock and should arrive in a week. We will see how that pans out.

I also ordered the trd rear sway bar for my Tundra as well since they had it the cheapest. Hoping it improves handling and helps towing.

Now we wait some more.

Did you go with the 99s?

 

[RoyBell]

Did you go with the 99s?

I have a '99. When I put my vin in, the same springs numbers came up that people were referencing as the "highlander" tall 99 springs. So, I basically got what my truck came with originally.

 

[shahsmerdis]

I have a '99. When I put my vin in, the same springs numbers came up that people were referencing as the "highlander" tall 99 springs. So, I basically got what my truck came with originally.

what the springs cost you?