When to replace factory shocks?

I tried to search, but couldn't come up with the answer I was looking for. I am wondering when most of you have had to replace the factory shocks on your 2nd gen tacos? I have an 05 DC TRD OR with 80,000 miles. The ride seems to be doing ok, but I have heard the factory recommends you replace them at 60,000. I don't do a ton of offroading, and when I do it's very mild. (Stupid Prerunner ) Just trying to get an idea of how long they last and maybe some input on how to really check to see if they need replacement. Thanks for any help you all can offer...

Oh yeah, and when it is time, you think the 5100's are worth it over stock replacement? Just keeping factory stance.

 

When they feel spongy. I did mine at 45k but thats because I did Sway's up front and 5125's in the rear that was later replaced by new stock yellow TRD's cause the 5125's were are little much for stock rear leafs.

 

Now!!!!!!!!!!!

 

subscribed.

 

But they feel fine. I have heard of shocks lasting past 100,000. Why do you feel so strongly about replacing them now?

 

do it now and you wont have to worry about it problem solved

 

J/K.....I just changed mine because I wanted lift so went with 5100s, are they the black Tokicos or yellow Bilsteins? I say change them when they leak, bounce more than once, or you want lift........or more importantly, when you can afford to.

 

sort of off topic, but what do you mean they were a little much for your stock rear leafs?

 

The valving and length was to much for the stock leafs. It was mean't for a lifted rear. I never got around doing the rear. I still have the 5125's for that matter.

 

I now hypnotize you into selling them to me very cheap.........................thank you

 

I hypnotize me to replacing the stock rear and put these shocks to use.

 

Ride control is an inspection/customer concern item when it comes to replacement in most cases. I can find nothing in factory service information that indicates a time or mileage for replacement of shocks on the Tacoma.

Shock makers like to suggest replacement at 60,000............as do many service facilities. I have seen nice, properly functioning Billies taken from a vehicle and replaced with a standard duty/quality of shock. Sacrilege IMO.

You have been given good feedback on when to replace. Leaks, excess bounce over bumps, jounce testing are all good tests to run. The deteriorate slowly over the years. You may like the ride of new ones once installed but if there is no indication to replace then leave it be. One additional note is tire wear. Poor shocks can lead to tire cupping over time due to constant bounce going down the road. If the balance is correct and the alignment is right, ride control can be the issue. Good shocks actually help in stopping on rough roads by helping keep the tire in contact with the surface.