A Helping Hand

Looking for a fellow TW member who could help out with the OME Dakar installation on my taco. Over the weekend a buddy and I installed the new 883 coilovers and LR UCAs, but quickly realized we were under equipped for the job on the rear. We started to disassemble the passenger side and absolutely could not get the leaf spring eye bolts out from the hanger or shackle. If I hadn't read about how rusted they get I would have swore they were welded on. I didn't want to cut them at that time because I didn't have replacement bolts, and am now tossing around the idea of ordering some OME greaseable shackles.
I'm new to the area and live in Littleton. I'd be happy to offer pay, pizza, and beer in exchange for a helping hand, a place to do the work, and some knowledge on the installation. Feel free to pm me if anyone can help out! I'd rather learn to do it myself instead than taking it to a shop, but if I can't find help feel free to suggest a good shop in the area for the job.

The attached photos are how it sits now. The rear already had a block lift installed when I purchased it, so it sits almost level (a little lower in the back). I am absolutely amazed with both the new coilovers and control arms. The 883s are pretty stiff right now and felt a little brutal on certain roads, but a heavier bumper is in the near future. The wheel spacers also added some stability in handling that lacked before. We also took the fender flares off because I think it looks better without. I didn't notice any major vibrations or steering problems when taking it out for a spin. It seems like there is now more engine brake (if that makes sense) then there was before the install? I guess I don't know how to explain it other than it feels like there is more drag and a faster deceleration when not on the gas. Is this normal?

 

If I was closer I would lend a hand. I had a hell of time due to the front bolts on the leaf springs. I ended up cutting them off with a grinder and cut off wheel. Then I had to order the new bolts from Toyota. If I was you, I would just plan on cutting the bolts off, just make sure you have the replacements prior to starting the job unless you have another vehicle to drive. My truck sat in my garage for a few days waiting for parts.

Good luck!

 

Thanks for the reply! Have any input to the 'drag' feeling I described?

 

*bump.
130 views and 1 reply? Any input is better than none!

 

Did you try soaking all of the bolts in PB blaster before attempting to remove them? That could get you at least part of the way there if they are frozen. Also make sure you are torquing on the nut as opposed to on the bolt.

 

I hit them with pb blaster twice the day before we tried to get them off and the morning of. The nuts came off fairly easy, but the bolts didn't budge at all

 

If the bolts are that frozen I'd replace them out of principle and just cut them off.

 

Thank you for the replies. I'm figuring I will have to cut them off like you said and ended up ordering new bolts yesterday. Do you have any input regarding the deceleration I described? Is that normal to experience when installing a taller lift?

 

I can't comment on the perception of increased drag and deceleration as I can't say I noticed that on either of my Tacos after lifting. Same wheels and tires as before? Did you get it aligned after the front lift?

 

Same wheels and tires, with the addition of spidertrax wheel spacers. I have also not gotten an alignment yet.

 

You still need help? I work for beer. Shoot me a pm.

 

When changing suspension components, the truck will ride & feel different...you'll get used to it. Do you track your gas mileage?

 

I put em on mine not too long ago, I can help break those suckers if you need still...depending on when you want to do it. Send me a PM if you still need a hand and when you're trying to tackle it!

Edit to tell you how I got em off:
Breaker bar and then used a floor jack to push the bar up a few times.

 

Pm sent

 

That's reassuring. I think when I initially posted this the "drag" I was talking about was just a lack of adjustment as you described. I do track my gas mileage as best I can. I haven't driven it enough to track a change since the install though.

 

I appreciate the offer of help! I'll definitely message you if it is needed. I'm looking forward to meeting some TW folk in the area!

 

I would suggest just cut them off, don't waste time taking them off when you should replace them anyway. I had to cut mine off, they had become one with the leaf lol. As for help, I could help you out or offer my garage aswell. I'm by DIA, pm me with a day you want to get it done.

 

If there is actually a drag or resistance I would think it would affect your gas mileage

 

Sounds good bud! I'm going to get some new bolts today from 4 wheel parts and I'll shoot you a pm tonight!

 

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