X-REAS Advantages?

[jwarthman]

Well, my '05 reached 145,000 miles, and three shocks need replaced. It has the X-REAS system, which is horribly expensive to replace - my dealership wants $4,300, before taxes!

So I'm looking at options. I gather it's common to rip out X-REAS and replace with after market shocks.

But my main question is this. In terms of ride quality, handling, and safety, what will I be giving up if I replace X-REAS with "standard" shock absorbers? When I bought the 4Runner new, it seemed that X-REAS had advantages. But now that many of you have gotten rid of your X-REAS, I'd love to hear about your experiences.

Second, I'm not planning to "lift" the vehicle, and would appreciate your suggestions on what after market shocks you would recommend for this '05 (or recommend I avoid)?

Thanks in advance!

 

[BlackWorksInc]

XREAS is predominantly an On-Road oriented suspension package, it helps the vehicle corner and plant into the pavement better when turning. Off-road the valving and spring rate is tuned well enough to soak up moderate off-roading, the ride is far too stiff and loud.

Typically depending on what shock/spring you go with you can emulate and/or surpass the effectiveness of the XREAS system (i.e. a lot of people comment that the Bilsteinn 5100's seem to be an almost upgrade over the XREAS when matched with good springs in terms of its on-road handling.) My 2.5" Radflo Coilover Suspension lift actually feels the same (and possibly a little better) than my XREAS did.

Bottom line, if you're going to replace the XREAS system with standard shocks (i.e. OEM Replacements for a 4Runner) the ride will be softer and more akin to an SR5 with more body roll and lean-in in corners (thus losing the XREAS advantage.) If you decide to spring for some better shocks/springs like a mildly set-up Bilstein 5100 set-up or another brand, the combination should be close to the XREAS if not better in some cases (thus not really losing anything from the XREAS) while not spending $4k in parts & labor (by the way that is ridiculous, last quote I heard was n the $3400 range if I remember right... so somewhere they're tacking on some money...)

 

[jwarthman]

BlackWorksInc, thanks very much for your perspective!

While I do some off-roading, probably 90-95% is on-road, so I'm sure I've been getting some benefit from the XREAS system.

That said, if I can surpass the effectiveness of XREAS with standard (non-OEM) shocks and springs, I'm all for it. I'd be interested in what springs you would recommend, and if there are other (better) shocks besides the Bilsteinn 5100s, I'd be interested to know.

By the way, I double-checked the quote I got today from one local dealer: $4,293!! I think I need to get quotes from a couple other dealers.

Thanks again!

 

[BlackWorksInc]

For anyone that is interested, the following data is roughly every component related to the XREAS system on a Non-RAS 4th Gen 4Runner (likely the list of parts most dealerships will give a customer.)

The following Figures are broken down like this:

Figure A

Figure B

Figure C

The following list is the Price, Part Name, Part Number, and its Identifier (number/letter/code) in the parts diagram. Keep in mind some items you need more than one so a note has been made next to price (i.e. x2)

• $11.32 Protector Tube, RH [P/N: 47378-35050] (47378D in Figure "A")
• $11.32 Protector Tube, LH [P/N: 47388-35010] (47388B in Figure "A")
• $159.37 Absorber Assembly, Shock, Front RH [P/N: 48510-80229] (48510 in Figure "B")
• $159.37 Absorber Assembly, Shock, Front LH [P/N: 48520-39885] (48520 in Figure "B")
• $203.29 Absorber Assembly, Shock, Rear RH [P/N: 48530-80089] (48530 in Figure "C")
• $203.29 Absorber Assembly, Shock, Rear LH [P/N: 48540-39445] (48540 in Figure "C")
• $241.63 Absorber Assembly, Center Control, RH [P/N: 48550-35020] (48550A in Figure "A")
• $241.63 Absorber Assembly, Center Control, LH [P/N: 48560-35020] (48560 in Figure "A")
• $119.35 Tube, Center Control Absorber, RH [P/N: 48555-35040] (48555 in Figure "A")
• $119.35 Tube, Center Control Absorber, LH [P/N: 48565-35040] (48565B in Figure "A")
• $14.87 Bracket, Center Control Absorber, RH [P/N: 48556-35010] (48556 in Figure "A")
• $14.87 Bracket, Center Control Absorber, LH [P/N: 48566-35010] (48566B in Figure "A")
• $3.84 (x2) Retainer, Rear Shock Absorber Cushion [P/N: 48597-60070] (48597A in Figure "C")
• $0.96 (x2) Bolt [P/N: 91641-H0820] (91641-H0820 in Figure "A")
• $0.81 (x10) Bolt w/ Washer [P/N: 90119-08A33] (90119-08A33 in Figure "A")
• $4.82 (x10) Clamp [P/N: 90949-01C94] (90949-01C94 in Figure "A")
• $5.77 (x2) Clamp [P/N: 90949-01C93] (90949-01C93 in Figure "A")

Parts Subtotal: $1578.56

+ 25% Mark-Up = $1973.20 (A rough estimate on what a customer would be quoted)

Labor is approximately as follows, I don't have a flat rate manual on hand so I can't say for sure.

• 5.0hrs to replace front,rear shocks, center control dampeners, and plumbing
• 1.0hrs for 4-Wheel Alignment

6.0hrs Labor x $150 (Rough Estimated Dealer Labor Rate) = $900

Plus a Disposal Fee (Again Estimated) $100
____________________________________

Parts w/ 25% Mark-Up: $1973.20
6.0hrs Labor @ $150/hr: $900.00
Disposal Fee: $100.00
Total Before Taxes: $2973.20

~

Pricing & Part Information pulled from http://www.villagetoyotaparts.com/

 

[jwarthman]

Holy cow!! BlackWorksInc, thank you so much for that detailed analysis!! That's very very helpful.

I will report back what the other local dealers quote for this repair.

Enjoy!

 

[netwon]

[*] 5.0hrs to replace front,rear shocks, center control dampeners, and plumbing

When replacing leaking struts do you need to change center control dampeners and all the plumbing?

 

[BlackWorksInc]

When replacing leaking struts do you need to change center control dampeners and all the plumbing?

Yes, FSM states for a leak related failures the entire shock pair must be replaced.

 

[YetiX]

Fwiw, I just replaced my XREAS with FJ Cruiser front springs and Bilstein 5100's all around. I haven't taken it off road yet, but the on road performance is much better. The biggest improvement was due to the FJ springs in the front. It seemed that my 4R would bottom out on speed bumps, dips, etc. where it really should not have, especially as an SUV. Others have made the same observation.

Not anymore. The ride around corners feels the same and my 4R tracks much better on the freeway. Bumps in the road don't upset the suspension the way they used to either.

 

[netwon]

Yes, FSM states for a leak related failures the entire shock pair must be replaced.

In Canada our dealerships are supplied with this information about replacing the shocks in pairs but that you but no requirement to replace the central dampener or metal tubing. Only speaks of having the rear axle supported when on the lift to ensure wheels are at "normal rebound" to ensure extra fluid is not removed from the system.

 

[CookieRoe]

In Canada our dealerships are supplied with this information about replacing the shocks in pairs but that you but no requirement to replace the central dampener or metal tubing. Only speaks of having the rear axle supported when on the lift to ensure wheels are at "normal rebound" to ensure extra fluid is not removed from the system.

When I replaced all four of my XREAS shocks about a year ago, I was told the shocks can only be replaced ONCE, after that, the entire system (tubing, central pump, etc) must be replaced. That's when your wallet turns to dust. Anyway, I love the ride and cornering of the XREAS. I've experienced Bilstein shocks when I had my GC. The handling is definitely nicer, however the firm ride got old real fast. I hate a pillowy ride, but at the same time, don't care for a stiff ride. I know the XREAS has a tendency to last about 100K miles. I haven't decided what to do when mine eventually wear out.

 

[BlackWorksInc]

When I replaced all four of my XREAS shocks about a year ago, I was told the shocks can only be replaced ONCE, after that, the entire system (tubing, central pump, etc) must be replaced. That's when your wallet turns to dust. Anyway, I love the ride and cornering of the XREAS. I've experienced Bilstein shocks when I had my GC. The handling is definitely nicer, however the firm ride got old real fast. I hate a pillowy ride, but at the same time, don't care for a stiff ride. I know the XREAS has a tendency to last about 100K miles. I haven't decided what to do when mine eventually wear out.

We actually looked that up recently when we recommended an XREAS system to a customer.

The FSM states that a shock can be replaced once only if the failure is a non-leak related failure. If the system is leaking, the entire shock pair and central dampener and tubing must be replaced per FSM.

 

[CookieRoe]

We actually looked that up recently when we recommended an XREAS system to a customer.

The FSM states that a shock can be replaced once only if the failure is a non-leak related failure. If the system is leaking, the entire shock pair and central dampener and tubing must be replaced per FSM.

Interesting. Hmmm. Well, if memory serves, I failed state inspection b/c of a leaky front shock. My mechanic friend called BS of the shock being shot. He did say it had been slightly wet, but evidently not actively leaking. That was enough to fail me, but he insisted my shock was fine. The dealer also said a rear shock was leaking. My friend couldn't find the leak and said the rear shocks were dry (he doesn't have a lift). Anyway, I decided to have all 4 replaced. My 4R corners flatter than my 07 Civic (currently at 168K miles, original everything, 95% highway driving). I don't want the stiff ride billies give ya.

Man, If I could get the whole system at cost and find someone to correctly install them for cheap................

 

[BlackWorksInc]

[MENTION=50507]CookieRoe[/MENTION]

Well cost for the entire XREAS system as shown above is $1578.56 if you buy it from Toyota Parts - Shop OEM Toyota Parts Online at Village Toyota (cheaper than dealership typically.)

Replacement of each unit is allowed if there is no oil leakage. But, in case of oil leakage from the system,
replace both the absorbers and the center unit as a set.​

That's from the FSM regarding Precautions on working on the XREAS system.

 

[Jhalko]

I realize I'm in a 5th gen, but heck it's basically bigger and probably would ride worse than you. I pulled out my Xreas and replaced with Toytec boss coilovers up front And sway a way coils with bilstein 5100 shocks in the rear (a mild lift), including installation costs it was less than $2000, the ride on and off-road is exceptional. I did it for off-road but I drive a ton on the highway at 70mph in the mtns here and it is outstanding. I guess my point is for the quotes you are getting for Xreas you can still have a great on road ride with some of these more off-road oriented systems.

 

[netwon]

Guess I will not wait until I have badly leaking shocks to replace. I'm coming on 135,000km and will have it serviced before it is too late!

Thanks once again for the good info guys!

 

[CookieRoe]

[MENTION=50507]CookieRoe[/MENTION]

Well cost for the entire XREAS system as shown above is $1578.56 if you buy it from Toyota Parts - Shop OEM Toyota Parts Online at Village Toyota (cheaper than dealership typically.)

Replacement of each unit is allowed if there is no oil leakage. But, in case of oil leakage from the system,
replace both the absorbers and the center unit as a set.​

That's from the FSM regarding Precautions on working on the XREAS system.

In your opinion, would a competent mechanic be able to install XREAS? (any special tools required, procedures, etc). We all the know the dealer's labor will tack on TON more. I plan on keeping my 4R for a long time. Thanks :thumb:

I realize I'm in a 5th gen, but heck it's basically bigger and probably would ride worse than you. I pulled out my Xreas and replaced with Toytec boss coilovers up front And sway a way coils with bilstein 5100 shocks in the rear (a mild lift), including installation costs it was less than $2000, the ride on and off-road is exceptional. I did it for off-road but I drive a ton on the highway at 70mph in the mtns here and it is outstanding. I guess my point is for the quotes you are getting for Xreas you can still have a great on road ride with some of these more off-road oriented systems.

And that's the thing, if about $2K can buy me a better shock system, I'm all for it. If I wasn't married, I'd totally do a 1-2 in lift. My wife is 5'0", we have a 3 year old and possibly another one coming next year. Lifting her isn't an option.

 

[Jhalko]

And that's the thing, if about $2K can buy me a better shock system, I'm all for it. If I wasn't married, I'd totally do a 1-2 in lift. My wife is 5'0", we have a 3 year old and possibly another one coming next year. Lifting her isn't an option.

I hear you, my wife is 5'2" and we have a 3 and 5 year old, honestly my wife didn't even notice the lift. The reality is that she is so short she already had to climb in so a couple inches doesn't matter. I use the step now where before I didn't, more of an annoyance for me! My parts were just over $1200, which compared to paying a dealer to reinstall a leaking Xreas is just solid financial sense (at least that's my feeling, haha). I paid for install because I was working to much, which also meant I had the money to pay.

 

[YetiX]

Interesting. Hmmm. Well, if memory serves, I failed state inspection b/c of a leaky front shock. My mechanic friend called BS of the shock being shot. He did say it had been slightly wet, but evidently not actively leaking. That was enough to fail me, but he insisted my shock was fine. The dealer also said a rear shock was leaking. My friend couldn't find the leak and said the rear shocks were dry (he doesn't have a lift). Anyway, I decided to have all 4 replaced. My 4R corners flatter than my 07 Civic (currently at 168K miles, original everything, 95% highway driving). I don't want the stiff ride billies give ya.

Man, If I could get the whole system at cost and find someone to correctly install them for cheap................

Stiff ride? Not sure where you heard that. I just installed 5100's on my 4R and it is not a stiff ride at all. Pretty much the same as it was before with XREAS, if anything it may be a bit softer but much better controlled ride.

 

[Staceman]

The Bilsteins are amazing.
This should help you decide.

"Fixed" my X-REAS for about $400...


http://www.toyota-4runner.org/4th-gen-t4rs/151395-i-finally-got-scrap-x-reas.html#post1489976


.

 

[2014 Warthog]

BlackWorksInc, thanks very much for your perspective!

While I do some off-roading, probably 90-95% is on-road, so I'm sure I've been getting some benefit from the XREAS system.

That said, if I can surpass the effectiveness of XREAS with standard (non-OEM) shocks and springs, I'm all for it. I'd be interested in what springs you would recommend, and if there are other (better) shocks besides the Bilsteinn 5100s, I'd be interested to know.

By the way, I double-checked the quote I got today from one local dealer: $4,293!! I think I need to get quotes from a couple other dealers.

Thanks again!

Also consider getting a quote from a factory authorized NON-dealer mechanic. They can be like 35% or more less and just as good. Or well far better or far worse depending on specific dealer and mechanic of course. But assuming same level of quality, still...

In a situation I had once, the Toyota dealer wanted something like $5500 for a top end engine rebuild and I ended up paying $3200 at a Toyota (non-dealer) mechanic for the whole thing and the engine has now run longer on the rebuild than it originally did before needing the rebuild (Note for those of you who are going to mention "JDM" that was not an option that I recall nearly 20 years ago )