What shocks to replace for 96 4unner 4WD

[Denet]

I replaced my 96 4runner 4wd LE stock shocks with Blistein shocks at 88,000 miles. They have almost 100,000 miles on them. The front driver side is getting really soft. Rest of them seem ok.

Should I have them rebuild or replace with same Blistein shocks?

They are about $350 to purchase them all.

Is there another brand other than Blistein that is more affordable but similar quality?

I know how to replace them but not rebuild them.

Thanks,

paul

 

[luigi123]

Tokico Trekmasters are another brand you can go with that I've heard good things about, especially if you keeping your stock Springs.

 

[RonMAIDEN]

You can get the Bils for $300 from shox.com and they also have the Tokicos (pretty much OEM replacements) for even much cheaper.

 

[Islands]

I just replaced my stock shocks with the Tokico Trekmasters. As it was explained to me, I went from Tokico's cheapest made shock (stock) to their very best shock (the Trekmaster).

The improvement over stock was amazing, especially the handling and hide speed ride. The ride comfort at low speeds isn't really noticeably better but the handling at all speeds totally transformed the vehicle. Towing is a whole lot more comfortable and controlled as well.

I wouldn't want to go any stiffer than the Trekmasters and I understand the Bilstein's are much stiffer.

 

[Denet]

Thanks

Thank you all for your great information. I am going with the Tokico Trekmasters.

 

[ooja3k]

does that install require anything special???

spring compressors???


how do you know the ones at shox.com are the tokico trekmasters... it just says tokico...

for 80 more bucks do you think the bilsteins would be the way to go? i am looking for a little less body roll/better handling/ yet i do offroad sometimes.

 

[luigi123]

does that install require anything special???

spring compressors???


how do you know the ones at shox.com are the tokico trekmasters... it just says tokico...

for 80 more bucks do you think the bilsteins would be the way to go? i am looking for a little less body roll/better handling/ yet i do offroad sometimes.

Having just put in all new springs, struts, and shocks two weeks ago on my 4runner I think I can shime in here. As far as installation if you have basic mechanical skills and a decent toolbox, jackstands, and a good jack you should not have a problem. For the rear it should be a cake walk, only issue if your old stuff is really rusty...use some PB blaster a day or two before the install and that should not be a problem. The hardest part is the front, not that hard if your keeping your OEM springs. you can do one of two things, rent spring compressors it will be about an hour for each side. Or you can take it to an auto shop and they can do it for you. But since your not upgrading springs you should do it yourself.


If the tokicos are green on the site then they are the trekmasters.

I've never had bilsteins, but people have said they are kind've stiff on the road.
A suggestion to help body roll is replacing your swaybar bushings http://www.energysuspension.com/pages/swaybb.html
Very cheap and easy maintenance job.