5100s front / 2" AAL back (couple questions)

Does the setup with adjustable Biltein 5100s (front) utilize the stock coils even though Toytech website states "NOT RECOMMENDED FOR USE WITH SPACERS OR COILS UNLESS LOWEST (STOCK) SETTING IS USED"

Also, is this a relatively good setup for a cheap, small lift? Not too much offroading and certainly not any agressive offroading...

I was previously looking at the OME kit but the local shops here want $550+ for install so that's a little out of my price range.

I'm a pretty handy person and I have all the right tools. i just don't have too much automotive experience. Is this install for me?

 

i dont see why the 5100 wont work with the stock coils. if u have the tools then your good just need an extra hand. there should be info on how to install somewhere in this site.

 

I've heard that you need a special tool to load the coils on the shocks. Is it necessary for stock coils on 5100s?

 

You need a spring compressor to load coils onto struts by yourself. Other than that, you just need basic hand tools although air tools will make for a much quicker and easier installation.

 

If you're not confidant, take it to a mod day or a reputable shop

 

They mean not to use perch on 5100s preloaded when using lift coils, you leave it at 0 if using those coils. Using the stock coils with or without preload set with 5100s is OK......and yes, you need spring compressor no matter what setup you go with doing it yourself as was mentioned.

 

5100s with stock coils in Front and 2" AALs in the Rear don't reaquire any further modification, correct? (ex. diff drop)

 

Hopefully... anytime you lift a vehicle you run the risk of introducing vibrations because you changed the driveline geometry. You could potentially end up needing a CB drop, shims or a front diff drop. You 'shouldn't' need anything else besides 5100's and the AAL but no one can say definitively that you won't need them later to correct vibes. Not to scare you, you're better off planning for it now than figuring it out later.

 

chris4x4 did a nice write-up about how to change front coils without a spring compressor. Unfortunately the pics are gone

http://www.tacomaworld.com/forum/suspension/31862-how-front-shock-spring-removal.html