Bilstein 5100 for a 97 Tacoma

So I'm looking at getting the Bilstein 5100 for the front and rear of my truck. The truck is still stock so I'm thinking I should probably replace the front coil springs too. What advice do you have on that setup?

 

I'm not sure what type of wheeling you do, or if you have a lift. That being said, I've got a '96 with a similar setup. In front, I've got Tundra 5100s inside of the "build it yourself" Toytec coilover. The coil is a 16", 600 lb coil. This setup has worked great for me. I've got a front bumper, winch, and full skid plates so the larger shock doesn't overheat as easily and the coil matches my truck's weight really well.

Here's a picture of my setup under full compression (you can see my LCA on the bump stop):



Here's a pic with the coilover extended a bit. Not full extension though.



I've got 7100 short bodies in my rear, so I can't speak to the 5100s as much there:

 

I don't do to much aggressive wheeling. I just bought my truck so I'm still getting started. With the 5100's and Toytech coil overs, how much will that lift the truck? And what do you have a for a lift in the back besides the 7100 short bodies?

 

So, you can set the coilovers to any ride height you want (0-3 inches of lift), but they are more expensive than just buying a lift spring and shock by about $200. I bought the coilover because I am OCD and wanted the truck to sit exactly level (Left/Right).

In the rear, I have a custom 8 leaf pack from Alcan and a 1.5" longer shackle (5.5" eye to eye). My total front lift is just under 3" and my rear lift is about 3.75". My truck is raked but it's very functional off road.

What I'd do, in your situation, is give Toytec a call and ask for "Jeff". Tell him "Lumpskie" told you to call and he'll know me. He's really knowledgeable and you can tell him what you plan on doing with your truck. Also, he'll give you any discounts that he can.

 

Ok thanks! I emailed toytec and told them what I wanted to do with the truck and that you referred me. Thanks for your help!

 

What bushings did you get to run those shocks in the rear?