jkconnections
New member
Hi,
I
I
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suspension problems -- is it just shocks?
- Thread starter jkconnections
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RonMAIDEN
Super Moderator
4Runners aren't built on a Tacoma suspension (parts aren't compatible) and definetly rides better stock but once the suspension gets some miles on it you wouldn't know that.
You want a nice street ride then give Tokico shocks a try since I think that's the ones Toyota uses as stock OEM equipment and then get '99 springs all around. This is fine if you don't really off road much and should cost under $500.
OME (Old Man Emu) shocks and springs cost about $650 and will give you about 2" but there's no need for anything else but if you don't off road much then it's not worth the extra cost.
You want a nice street ride then give Tokico shocks a try since I think that's the ones Toyota uses as stock OEM equipment and then get '99 springs all around. This is fine if you don't really off road much and should cost under $500.
OME (Old Man Emu) shocks and springs cost about $650 and will give you about 2" but there's no need for anything else but if you don't off road much then it's not worth the extra cost.
jkconnections
New member
Thanks for the reply!
Is there a major difference between the 98 springs and the 99s?
Also, does it sound like the springs on mine are bad or just could be improved by the 99 model year's design?
Jonathan
Is there a major difference between the 98 springs and the 99s?
Also, does it sound like the springs on mine are bad or just could be improved by the 99 model year's design?
Jonathan
Easy
You just need shocks. from everything I've reseached here (thanks Thai!):
* OEM for street comfort
* Bils if you want firmer-than-OEM
* OM Emu if dirt is the priority
OEM will be the least expensive option and is matched to your springs (which are fine). Tires really make a big difference in how the 4R handles and rides.
I've got 'spensive shoes on mine (Mich Cross-Terrains), but they're really great in dry, wet and pretty damn good in the occasional snow. Plus, they absorb sharp bumps well (key with the 4Runner as it tends to ride firm and hard even w/ OEM shocks and spings) w/o flopping over around coners (another good thing as 4Rs handle like sh*t).
TireRack has great write-ups on how tires "feel" and perform.
You just need shocks. from everything I've reseached here (thanks Thai!):
* OEM for street comfort
* Bils if you want firmer-than-OEM
* OM Emu if dirt is the priority
OEM will be the least expensive option and is matched to your springs (which are fine). Tires really make a big difference in how the 4R handles and rides.
I've got 'spensive shoes on mine (Mich Cross-Terrains), but they're really great in dry, wet and pretty damn good in the occasional snow. Plus, they absorb sharp bumps well (key with the 4Runner as it tends to ride firm and hard even w/ OEM shocks and spings) w/o flopping over around coners (another good thing as 4Rs handle like sh*t).
TireRack has great write-ups on how tires "feel" and perform.
uclaanandpshah
New member
What Did you Decide?
Hello jkconnections,
What did you decide to do? Are you happy with your decision. I own a 96 runner and am looking to change the shocks and i guess maybe springs. I am looking for a less break your neck ride, and have been dealing with very similar issues that you have been, like the dash shaking and the back sagging. Your reply would be very helpful.
anand
Hello jkconnections,
What did you decide to do? Are you happy with your decision. I own a 96 runner and am looking to change the shocks and i guess maybe springs. I am looking for a less break your neck ride, and have been dealing with very similar issues that you have been, like the dash shaking and the back sagging. Your reply would be very helpful.
anand
jkconnections
New member
Re: What Did you Decide?
Anand,
I did pay to get the shocks replaced with Toyota OEM and I am glad I did so. The old shocks did fail the shock test and as expected the car doesn't go up and down 3 times when going over bumps anymore. However, the ride still is stiffer than I'd like. So now, I've special ordered some Michelin Cross Terrain SUV tires to replace my GoodYear Wranglers RT/S to see if that helps.
I haven't got money for springs, so if the tires don't fix it, I'm probably going to try and sell the car eventually.
I'd suggest:
If your shocks fail the bounce test, replace them. Mine were so bad, you could crawl under the car and literally pull the car down several inches just lying flat on your back.
If your shocks pass or are still fairly good, start with tires and go from there.
Jonathan
uclaanandpshah said:
Anand,
I did pay to get the shocks replaced with Toyota OEM and I am glad I did so. The old shocks did fail the shock test and as expected the car doesn't go up and down 3 times when going over bumps anymore. However, the ride still is stiffer than I'd like. So now, I've special ordered some Michelin Cross Terrain SUV tires to replace my GoodYear Wranglers RT/S to see if that helps.
I haven't got money for springs, so if the tires don't fix it, I'm probably going to try and sell the car eventually.
I'd suggest:
If your shocks fail the bounce test, replace them. Mine were so bad, you could crawl under the car and literally pull the car down several inches just lying flat on your back.
If your shocks pass or are still fairly good, start with tires and go from there.
Jonathan
