The SAG... I'm sorry

[BCyota]

Ok, first off I'm sorry to be the one posting yet another sagging rear 4runner question. I have read through what feels like a dozen different threads on this topic and received a multitude of warnings and tips.

I have a 1988 22RE 4Runner, my rear is pretty saggy. The previous owner had a towing hitch attached, so I'm sure this is where most of it came from. I've pulled that off as I have no intention of towing with my little 4-cyl.

I'm not looking for crazy height, I just want it lifted a bit so I can fit some 33" tires and a more comfortable right. I'm planning a little bit of 4x4, but again, nothing extreme.

The suggestions:

ZUK Mod - looks doable at home and cheap, I've seen varying results.

AAL kit - Not sure if I can pull this one off at home, might need to take it to the shop. And I've heard that yes, it lifts it up quite well, but then you get a really stiff ride.

New Leaf Spings - Is this a simple swap or should I take it to the shop for this?

Rearching the leafs - I was told this tends to not have a long lifespan, and for the price of new leafs, its not overly worth it.

other ideas?New struts? Air gags?

To top it all off, I live in Canada, so I'm cheap... lol. If you're going to recommend a distributor, online shop, or brand I have had troubles getting some stuff in Canada for a good price.

Thanks everyone.

 

[T?@\7]

easy choice, buy all new old man emu stuff(struts, leafs,torsion bars), front included. all suspension work is very easy and straight forward (besides t-bars). Your problem will be solved

 

[BCyota]

Cheers

Thanks T?@\7.... Odd name.

i forgot to mention my other requirement. I don't have a crazy disposable income like others who trick out their 4runner.

I've seen the OME gear and it looks amazing, but I'm not sure I can afford it.

 

[T?@\7]

i TOTALLY understand.....trust me. (long story)
In that case, a new set of leafs would fix the sag and not sacrifice too much ridequality aslong as your shocks are in decent shape.
I went with the whole setup after a summer of saving and because my rancho shocks (i bought the truck with them) were SHOTTTT. But if your truck is riding comfortably and you just want to kick the sag in the nuts, I would say new leafs would be the best option. But I am no expert, Ive had my 87 for 5 months.

 

[fourwd1]

... I just want it lifted a bit so I can fit some 33" tires and a more comfortable right. I'm planning a little bit of 4x4, but again, nothing extreme.

If you want to fit 33" tires, you need to address the front and rear, not just fix a saggy rear end.
Your best bet would be a complete kit from one of the big suspension companies. The best kit for ride and handling would be Old Man Emu.

 

[Richard_]

33"s will fit with no lift , here is an inexpensive way gain more lift on the cheap Toyota 4Runner 2" Lift Kit 4WD 1985-1989 -- Fat Bob's Garage Online Store

here is mine 33"s and no lift

 

[Lil Red Yarder]

33s will fit stock but they will rub in the front. I just put a set on my 86 and had to do some cutting. I had a saggy rear when I got mine. I put a set of add-a-leafs in and that cured the problem(stiffened the suspension a little tho).

 

[BCyota]

Thanks guys,

I think i might do the ZUK mod for cheap (under $100) next week and then in 2011 when I have $1000 to spend on the whole kit, I'll probably do the OME full system. I haven't heard a single bad thing about OME yet.

I'll set up some photos when I do the ZUK mod.

Cheers

 

[BCyota]

Done!

Ok, I finally got the parts in and found a weekend where could spare some hours. The ZUK mod is now complete.

I ended up not taking any photos of the process because it decided to rain down heavily on my final weekend of choice and I was damn sure I didn't want to delay again. So I was working in a cramped little garage.

As much as people say they have bent the upper bumpstops, I had a ***** of a time trying to. After heating for 15 mins, that piece of metal was no more pliable than when i started, and with no sized hammer was I able to bend them having very little space to swing and a small target. I then tried Philbert's expander tool of a bolt and nuts, but I didn't make a strong enough one.

So finally I saw Duckie's version and said "what's the harm in trying?" and they fit in perfectly, no bending required. I think i kept mine a little longer than his, but it still fit great.

Removing the rear shackle to fit the springs in worked great. I'll post some photos in a couple days when the weather cheers up. All in all, I went from the Sag of 10" distance between the rim and fender to 14". 4" gain overall and no rake that I've noticed yet.

Thanks guys for all your help. Depending how I like this mod, I may keep it forever, or next year when the money is right I'll buy the whole OME 2" suspension kit.

 

[slacker]

the coil is a great mod .. we use to do it back in the /80's .. it'll last forever !!

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