Shock Suggestions

Hey guys,

Well the time has come to replace the original shocks (131K) on my 02 Taco. The thing bounces around more than a set of DD's on a water bed.

My question is, what shock should I go with? I'm thinking about going with the Bilstein 5100's. Can I use them with the stock suspension (i.e. no lift)? I also plan on getting a small lift (1.5") in the future, so would these shocks be able to handle the lift as well?

Sorry for the newb questions, I searched and it seems there was more conflicting information than helpful information.

By the way the Taco has an ARB bumper (no winch yet) on the front and soon to have a Relentless Fabrication rear bumper.

-Brian

 

Bump!

 

I would get 5100 front and 5125's rear since you plan to lift it soon. The 5125's I had for my stock leads was meant for 0-3" lift but I ran them with my stock leafs.

 

Thank you for the response. I need to get this done as soon as I can because the ride is starting to take its toll on me, and i'd rather not wait until I can lift it if there's another option for me to use the same shocks stock and lifted.

 

Give DSM a call, they'll give you the info you need

5100's f/r should be fine, though sonny/marco at DSM will let you know what would be best for your rear.

FWIW, I ran my AALs with "stock" length 5100's that I got before they started making extended 5100's, and they were fine. I wheeled them pretty good too, with no problems. they work with no lift as well.

that pretty flexing pic in the top right of the website is me with my stock 5100's and toytec AAL


edit:

also, as far as weight management of your ARB and relentless rear bumper, the shocks arent the weight bearing items, the coils and leaf springs are

 

I ran the BE5-6252-H5 right and BE5-6253-H5 left (rear 5125's) on stock TRD leaf springs.

 

DSM? I'm assuming you're talking about Down South Motorsports, i'll give them a call Monday.

Nice pic on the banner!

Regarding the edit, I'm aware that the shocks aren't weight bearing items although I thought the valving in the shock was partially related to the amount of weight put on the vehicle.

The correct OME coils and leafs will be another thread although i'm gathering as much info as possible so bear with me!

Good to know, thank you!

 

Based on DSM's recommendations, you may encounter problems using 5100s without any rear lift. Details are posted here and here but, the bottom line is that they've found 5100s to be "too long for no lift". Instead, they recommend 5125s for "stock" height applications. I highly recommend a BPV bracket extension, but haven't found a diff drop to be required.

For the rest of your suspension-related questions, I recommend you spend some time perusing the Tacoma Lift FAQ/Guide and Suspension Lift Info stickies.

 

Thank you for that. Good to have some solid information.

Now why would I need a BPV bracket extension for a 1" lift? I would think such a small lift wouldn't matter.

I have been reading up on the Lift FAQ and think I know what I want to lift my Taco. (There is a TON more lift options on these Tacos than on my 86 4Runner lol)

Thanks again!

 

You'll need a BPV bracket anytime you lift the rear beyond stock cause it controls how much percentage the rear drums are used when braking with and without a load in the back. This is to make sure your front rotors don't take all the braking. JLee makes them and they are adjustable.

 

Ah gotchya. I know what it does, just wasn't aware it was so sensitive.

Thanks!

 

x2, including the plug for JLee's OUTSTANDING workmanship. Highly recommended.

 

Much appreciated.