Trying to raise the front an inch

[Flyer]

I have been noticing that snow/ice gets packed and the front rubs a bit, while it does not normally. I switched the 265/65/17s for 265/70/17s a few years ago and it is an inch taller. Since the tire options suck in the smaller size, I think raising the front an inch will solve the problem. It has a big rake anyway.

I'd rather not use spacers but will if I have to. Why do I not like spacers? Primarily because it stiffens up the ride by compressing the spring even more. May have some CV problems at full droop too.

Currently, I have the FJ TRD's suspension on the 4R, and not the stock setup. If a simple front shock or front spring switch will work, that will be easy enough. I don't want to spend too much since I don't offroad the 4R anymore, though it sees dirt roads, mild trails and lots of snow for skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, etc. I certainly don't need a big lift. I want to maintain drivability and reliability.

Worst case- I go back to the smaller tire size but those tire choices are pretty pathetic so am trying to avoid that.

 

[xxaarraa]

If you have FJ springs, you are already about an inch taller than a stock 4R. Bigger tires puts you at another half inch. If you still need more but don't want a "lift kit" or spacers, getting Bilstein 5100s and setting it to 0.85 would be the only way I can think of.

 

[Flyer]

The rear went up a bit but the front did not seem to (V8) but the taller tires seem to rub when the fenders and arms are packed with ice/snow. Your adjustable 5100 option may be the best choice.

 

[Stuck CAPS]

The rear went up a bit but the front did not seem to (V8) but the taller tires seem to rub when the fenders and arms are packed with ice/snow. Your adjustable 5100 option may be the best choice.

Bilsteins, definitely. They're pretty cheap, too. It's most likely around the same proportions with the fj susp. as stock.

 

[Flyer]

Great! I'll start looking around for a front set. Then I can put on the DuraTracs and be much more confident in the snow. After 30,000 miles, the Hankook ATM RF10s are starting to lose their grip in the snow.

 

[Flyer]

Looks like all I need are the two shocks and I can reuse the FJ springs. Will see who has them the cheapest (or a local place, I guess) and look for someone with a spring compressor. Getting ~.85" in height increase will be the perfect place to start. The V8 is probably 100 lbs heavier than the V6 so I think they sag a bit more.

So yesterday I drove up north to RCI Metalworks and picked up an aluminum skidplate. I did that primarily to do oil changes without messing with the (warped) skid each time, and a little protection can't hurt. The stock skid is as thin as a spoon.