Bilstein 5100

Help. I. Recently purchased the 5100s from bilstein. Took them to a reliable mechanic that I’ve used in the past for leveling kits but never the 5100s. The shocks came with no install instructions they tried installing the new shocks but said they wouldn’t fit that they were to long? When they released the tension on the coil the shock was loose and little to no tension on the coil. Not sure what to do? Been in contact with bilstein and product numbers match to fit my truck. Also sent them pics of shocks to be sure. They say they see no reason why they shouldn’t work. I just purchased this truck last week. Bone stock. 2017 Tacoma Trd off road

 

Bring em some place that has a clue on what they are doing. You are a 3rd Gen so what parts numbers did you use for the shocks? If you used these then the place is clueless.

https://www.headstrongoffroad.com/s...air)_-_24-263108_for_2016__Toyota_Tacoma.html

 

That’s what I got

 

What notch did they put them on? Was the spring perch put on the correct way? There are also bushings and washers that have to go on properly

 

When installing, there should be, from the top of the boot and up: washer-rubber isolator (insert through top of shock tower) rubber isolator-washer-top nut. So the shocks should have came with two rubber isolators and two washers as well. Id say to call wherever you got them and ask for those parts. Is the aluminum washer youre talking about built into the top of the boot? If so, thats just for the boot. That rests on the retainer on the shaft, and then all of the washers and isolators sit on top of that. hope this helps

 

Doesn’t really matter how they install them, unless they leave the spring perch out, the coil is never going to be too short for the shock unless it’s the wrong shock, regardless.

 

Is there something they could have missed? Seems like it would be easy but with no install instructions could they possibly of missed something. They are a legit company

 

Honestly they go back together just how they came out of the truck, so I don't see how they can fuck it up

 

Make sure the black metal spring seat is positioned properly.
The instructions I had said to install them as the same way they were dissassmbled. But the picture actually showed the black speing seat faced down, giving an extra inch or so to re install

 

Ya that’s why I’m confused. I purchased the shocks from bilstein lifts.

 

If the part number is correct on the shock(not just the box), my guess is they didn't install the c-clip.

 

Im 95% sure they put the spring seat in wrong....fingers crossed anyways

 

Nope.
If they put it in backwards it would actually help.
Those who do, get too much lift and a harsh ride because the spring has way too much preload.

 

Sorry I would disagree. I had mine in upside down and could not force the control arm into position.

 

Make sure your black spring seats do NOT look like mine did. Or else it seems like the shock is "too long". Once i flipped mine reinstallation was a breeze.

 

Yout missed the part about no tension on the coil in the OP.

 

I hear ya. But the way hes describing it sounds exactly like the same problem i had thats all

 

Ahh...I see what our misunderstanding is.
You installed it while on the truck using the jack method.
I assumed since OP said it was a reputable shop, they disassembled/assembled it with a spring compressor; and the fact he said "released the coil".

 

Yes they used a spring compressor. So what way is the black spring seat suppose to go? Pics