I have had my 2007 4Runner Sport for about 1 1/2 years and I have noticed that it rides rough over bumps and speed bumps, etc. After doing a little investigating I realized the shocks aren't the standard that I'm used to seeing. I have Googled related issues and it always point to this site soo I'm guessing this is the place to be to get started on the right path. The X-REAS system is tooo expensive to replace on my budget it. I have read most of the stories on here on replacing the shocks but I'm kinda still puzzled to what I need. I want to keep the standard height of the vehicle with the smoothest ride that my budget will allow (I need various options). Can I used any standard shock thats fits my truck and will I need to get springs etc? If any of the readers on here can point me in the right direction it would be greatly appreciated. I'm looking for a simple setup. Thanks:driving:
X-REAS issue my first 4Runner -- please help!
- Thread starter imhooked
- Start date
Register to hide this ad
Yes, you can replace XREAS with aftermarket shocks, people do it all the time because they either don't like the way XREAS rides or XREAS fails and starts leaking fluid. I would say that the most common shocks people use are the Bilstein's.
With any shock, though, you have to make sure you understand that the 4Runner is a truck. It's not going to ride like a car.
As far as the springs, you can either keep the ones you have or get aftermarket ones. How many miles do you have?
With any shock, though, you have to make sure you understand that the 4Runner is a truck. It's not going to ride like a car.
As far as the springs, you can either keep the ones you have or get aftermarket ones. How many miles do you have?
aaronfro17
New member
You can replace them with any shock that fits the SR5 4runners or FJ Cruiser just disconnect the Xreas shocks from their reservoirs and you should be good to go!
Are sure the XREAS is failing or not working anymore? Before having it removed and having new shocks installed, I would do the following:
1. Check if it is leaking.
2. Drive another 4Runner of similar year and mileage but one without XREAS. (go to a car dealer or something and test drive one). After test driving, now you have more of a comparison what it will be like without XREAS.
3. if possible, find one with XREAS, and drive it and see how it differs from yours
Once you have absolutely determined it's your XREAS system, then have it changed out. You dont want to be kicking yourself later after the removed your xreas and installed new shocks to find the ride is even more rough, as XREAS should smooth out the ride in theory.
Yours is 2007 and it shouldnt be leaking so soon, unless you do a lot of hard offroading, etc.
The Xreas is not forgiving on speed bumps. Check for signs of leaks at each shock and the actuator located up againts the frame under the truck just behind the front doors on each side. If there is a leak start shopping for your replacement shock of choice. If not then..... I donno depends on your money situation. 
WOLVERINE
New member
I agree - it depends on your money situation - you can buy a newer XREAS from someone who removed it...look on craigslist I found a set for $100.
Or you can go aftermarket and get 5100's for $300-$400 + install or ICON's Stage 6 kit for $4800 +....I would stick with 5100's or stock X-REAS if you want a "stock ride."
Or you can go aftermarket and get 5100's for $300-$400 + install or ICON's Stage 6 kit for $4800 +....I would stick with 5100's or stock X-REAS if you want a "stock ride."
removing the X-REAS system isn't too hard. disconnect the hydraulic lines from every shock (with opposite corners of the vehicle completely lifted or hydraulic fluid will go everywhere), then remove the springs/shocks like you would any other vehicle.
To replace, you can just bolt in any other shocks meant for a 4Runner. The Bilstein 5100's are a good choice and can be adjusted (disassembled) from 0" lift to 2.5" lift in the front. A lot of people set them at 0.85" to sort of level the stance out a bit, but not provide much lift beyond that.
You can keep your stock springs, or you can replace the stock springs with springs from a 4x4 FJCruiser. FJ owners sell them cheap over on the FJ forums.
In my opinion, this is the best bang/buck scenario. Your performance will be as good or better than X-REAS, the ride will be a little firmer but still comfortable, and you can more or less keep the stock ride height (+/- 1" for the FJ springs).
I just did this swap, and it was worth the sub-$500 investment. Add an extra $200 - $300 to have somebody do it for you.
To replace, you can just bolt in any other shocks meant for a 4Runner. The Bilstein 5100's are a good choice and can be adjusted (disassembled) from 0" lift to 2.5" lift in the front. A lot of people set them at 0.85" to sort of level the stance out a bit, but not provide much lift beyond that.
You can keep your stock springs, or you can replace the stock springs with springs from a 4x4 FJCruiser. FJ owners sell them cheap over on the FJ forums.
In my opinion, this is the best bang/buck scenario. Your performance will be as good or better than X-REAS, the ride will be a little firmer but still comfortable, and you can more or less keep the stock ride height (+/- 1" for the FJ springs).
I just did this swap, and it was worth the sub-$500 investment. Add an extra $200 - $300 to have somebody do it for you.
