XREAS shocks rusting badly

[T.Rock]

I'm the original owner of a 2004 Sport Edition with only 61,000 miles on it. It has been virtually trouble-free for the 10 years that I've owned it, other than dealing with frozen pistons in the front calipers (yes, I know that's a common issue). Anyway, I've noticed that the rear XREAS shocks are starting to rust badly on both sides. I think it may be time to replace them.

Here's the question: My 4Runner is basically stock. I do have a small 1" leveling lift up front. I want to replace my XREAS shocks with something that will give me comparable ride quality to the stock set-up. I'm not really interested in swapping coils (no Moog or FJ coils for me). I just want to find a replacement shock that will give me similar ride quality to the XREAS system.

Anyone have advice?

 

[Bossman]

When my XREAS failed on my 03 Limited (due to corrosion of the lines between the shocks and a loss of fluid), I considered two options.

First option was to replace the XREAS - this option was very costly and I decided against it. Being a closed system makes it very challenging to repair/replace the original suspension.

Second option was to remove XREAS and replace with the basic SR5 suspension. Much more cost effective. This was the option I chose.

I did not want to lift, install aftermarket coils and what not. Just wanted it pretty much stock.

While the XREAS is a great suspension system in principle, when it fails it affects all four corners. The SR5 suspension has worked out just fine for me.

 

[T.Rock]

So you went to the Toyota dealer and purchased OEM shocks for the SR5? That might be a good option, but did the dealer gouge you on the shocks?

Also, how much different did the vehicle ride and handle? Did you notice a lot more body lean while corning or turning?

 

[Bossman]

Yes, I did go through my local Toyota dealership at the time, and my mechanic recommended the SR5 suspension. I trust my mechanic (who has since opened up his own shop with a much cheaper labour rate).

I likely did pay a little more at the dealership for OEM parts, rather than sourcing some aftermarket parts. If I had to do it again, I might have gone aftermarket just to save some cash. You pay a lot for the Toyota name on parts. Quality parts are certainly available from other sources.

Ride quality is good (I also have the rear air suspension) on the SR5 suspension. I can't say that I really noticed that much difference from the XREAS.

I do like to push the edge when cornering, and the standard suspension handles just fine in my opinion. It is a big vehicle and does not hug the road like a sports car in the corners (or highway on/off ramps). But body lean seems manageable with sensible driving on the standard suspension.

 

[V8Man]

My first own 2003 sport. 2wd V8 was hit hard the sides and back end. The sport had XREAS syspension. We it was totaled its engine now lives in #2 an SR5 w/o XReas. There is no better system for ride and comfort.