Decent replacement shocks

Greetings Gentlemen

Looking to replace the shocks on my 04 Tacoma with TRD package.

100% highway and NYC driving. Stock height. A little softer ride is fine too.

Any thoughts and experience with the below 3.

Billstein HD's (4600)

KYB Gas-a-Just

Monroe Sensatrac. These seem to have been replaced by OE Spectrum name, are they the same or are the OE's better quality?

Any other brand that you recommend.

Thanks

Alex

 

I'd go with 4600s or SensaTrac's (or equivalent).

 

The OEM shocks/struts will be valved specifically to your taco, which is a good thing for avoiding the need to install a kidney belt because of a harsh ride.

 

I ran KYB's for about 8 years with no issues. Actually changing to bilstein 5100's today.

 

.. most vehicle specific shocks are.

 

Oh the Monroe's are? Didn't know that. Glad to know that. I imagined the KYB were. Used them in the past. I installed some Monroe struts that came pre-assembled with coils on a Pontiac couple years ago. The front sat so high, I thought this can't be right. But parts were correct. And customer didn't complain.

 

Thanks Yoda!!lol

 

Also OP, Tokico makes a lot of OEM shocks for Toyota, including for the Land Cruiser. I wouldn't hesitate to buy Tokicos. I installed some high end Tokicos on a customers Lexus IS250 and those were some sweet struts.

 

I have monroe. Working good to me

 

My vote is for the 4600's.

Bilsteins are the bees knees

 

Bilsteins. Monroe in IMHO don't have enough control. A lot of rebound bounce with what I experianced

 

Genuine Toyota Parts (Bilstein). Cost about $100 each.

How many miles on your truck?

 

Thanks Gents

Going to go with Billstein HD's (4600) ......I think.

 

Question gents

I read somewhere that with the Bilstein 4600's, we should not use the front strut bump stops. Is this true? and if so why?

Thanks

 

Okay, first, these are coilovers, not struts. What bump stops are you talking about? The rubber bumper on the shock shaft or the suspension/a-arm bump stops?

These are a direct factory replacement, so you should leave them as-is and do as the directions state.

 

Thanks will do.

What I read was not for Toyotas.

 

I have a pair of front OME for sale $80.

 

Can't argue with the price assuming they are brand new. But I then I have to buy OME for the back, and the total cost will be higher than just buying four of the 4600's.

So I will pass but THANK YOU.

 

You don't actually have to "match" the shocks (by brand anyway). In most instances, especially for normal on-road driving, you probably won't notice.

 

You have a point, but by the time one adds the shipping costs, it will be a wash or very close. So I might as well get 4 of the same type.

I am sure those shocks will be sold quickly by posting it at the local Craigslist.

Thanks Gents