Suspension 15 - Off-Road

I was told my truck had a 3" lift, but (if its lifted that seems over stated). I am trying to learn and, from what I understand, there are no spacers on the vehicle.

I am not sure what standard leaf pack vs one with extra leafs looks like either.

I am at a point where I am trying to plan for weight of a front bumper, rear bumper, skids (aluminum), and a bed rack, topper, or habitat (undecided), etc.

All that said suspension is not an easy thing to understand for a newbie. I did some basic searching through the forums to try and figure it out, but didn't have a lot of luck. (if you can point me to some good threads that would be helpful) If you can help answer what I have (is it more than stock?) that would also be helpful. The ride is currently pretty stiff/rough both on and off-road.

here are a few pics:

 

you have what looks like a 2.5" spacer lift on the front. and the tsb 3+1 leaf springs in the rear with stock shocks. it looks like you have a 1" block in the rear as well

 

from what your plans sound like you want to do look here https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/overland-expedition-pics-specs-with-bs-thread.220278/

 

I have a 2" lift on my truck, and it feels like a firm version of the stock Taco. It has tremendous high speed driveability, and goes off road to all the places I need to go. You don't need to sacrifice anything to modestly lift a Tacoma. A good lift is smooth and comfortable at any speed. Good luck!! There are lots of options, it's all explained on here, including the TRD Pro lift + ICON progressive lift that I used. It's fun searching it out. There's a ton of great information.

 

Its a lot to take in. I don't think I need to be any higher. I'm not interested in rock crawling, just traveling and camping, getting off-road and out away from most people. (I do enjoy spending time around a fire with a good beer, but not with too many ppl) I want to get the ride right so I don't lose a comfortable ride. (My rig is a daily driver also.) From what I have read adding armor requires a bit of change from stock.

 

look into ome lift I think it will suit your needs very well. good for heavy bumpers and more. have you talked to Marie @HeadStrong Off-Road yet?

 

Nope, Still learning and trying to figure out options. I'm heading out on a trail run this weekend with TrailsoffRoad group and figured I'd ask some questions there too. I want to do it right the first time and if it costs more that is ok. Been doing some reading over at TTORA forums too. I do appreciate all the input from everyone.

 

it's good your doing your research. best thing you can do.

 

look in here to https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/ads-off-road-racing-shocks-information-pictures.341630/

 

You don't have to add much weight to your truck if you're not driving in extreme conditions. I have driven in Northern Canada with mostly stock 4x4's, and never needed skid plates. I'm a slow and cautious driver when I'm off road, but I've been in some very wild and remote places. The weight of a winch is well worth it though. But I've also used come alongs to get unstuck.

 

Well I am taking the plunge, I purchased an Icon Stage3 with the AAL this last weekend. I have a buddy that has installed suspension in several vehicles so I get to do the DIY on it... Looking forward to it in the next few weeks.

 

Well.. I took the plunge the S3 was ordered and is now installed.

Here is the front:

 

... and here is the rear...

 

... Before ...


... After ...

Alignment completed and there is no rubbing anywhere. Next will be to update wheels and tires.