Swapping rear springs

[Jester4kicks]

So I got my new Toytec superflex coils to replace my OME 895's and soften the ride up bit.

I was hoping to be able to install them by myself, but I'm running into a hitch... I can't seem to get the shock off the lower mounting point, and I really don't want to have to loosen and re-tighten the top nut on it.

Should I be able to get the shock off and back on that bottom post without removing the nut at the top? So far, I've only been able to pry it about 20% of the way. The bushing on there is really tough, and it doesn't seem like the angle will allow it to come straight off.

Thoughts?

 

[dougiefreshmx]

I've swapped the rear springs before without in bolting the top nut on the shock. I think you should be ok without having to do that. Definitely in bolt the sway bar!! I forgot one time on my 3rd gen and pulled the nut thru the washers... Good luck!

 

[settytb]

yeah just pry on it or use a large persuader...but mine pried off pretty easily.

 

[zstampe]

Side note: post pics after your swap is complete please.

 

[Dougtoms01]

So I got my new Toytec superflex coils to replace my OME 895's and soften the ride up bit.

I was hoping to be able to install them by myself, but I'm running into a hitch... I can't seem to get the shock off the lower mounting point, and I really don't want to have to loosen and re-tighten the top nut on it.

Should I be able to get the shock off and back on that bottom post without removing the nut at the top? So far, I've only been able to pry it about 20% of the way. The bushing on there is really tough, and it doesn't seem like the angle will allow it to come straight off.

Thoughts?

I just did my rear lift this weekend. The axel stud did seem to be at an angle that required a mallet to help it back on. Like the other post said, try unbolting your top link arm bolts. I took mine off with the wheels jacked up under the diff. I believe there is some tension/pressure there. That bushing and stud are both metal, maybe some penetrating oil would help too. Keep us posted. Best regards, Doug

 

[Jester4kicks]

Thanks for the encouragement!

I just finished the job 5 mins ago. The persuader was the ticket, along with some pb blaster.

The height looks about the same as it did with the OME 895's. I'll make a judgement about the ride once things have a chance to settle in.

The only other lesson learned was regarding installing the new springs. The toytec's are a bit taller than the OME's (pic below). I had already disconnected the rear sway bar, but to get them in, I had to let the rear axle hang AND use the stock jack between the axle and bumpstop to push the axle down.

Once they were in, everything else went like a charm!

Thanks again!

 

[MSU4Runner]

Considering the same swap. Curious to hear your thoughts on the ride improvement!

 

[Jester4kicks]

Well I just drove into the office and back, and it sure feels a lot more comfortable!

Even if my mind was playing tricks on me, there was a definite decrease in the number of rattles and vibration noises that I normally hear on the way to work.

It should only get better as the springs settle. I'll let you know if anything changes for the worse.

 

[MSU4Runner]

Good to hear, thanks. I think this will be my post-Thanksgiving project now. Probably order one of those OME 10mm rear spacers to try and fix the driver-side lean as well while I'm at it.