Should I install a Bilstein 5100?

I have a 2018 Taco Off Road and i was wondering if someone can give me a suggestion regarding installing a Bilstein 5100 to Level Lift my tacoma. I dont really want to lift the my truck to high. Plus if install a bilstein 5100 should i install a rear block.
Thanks in advance

 

By the way i want to use the factory coils

 

Unless you have access to a spring compressor I would get the coils to already together from headstrong...

 

You can rent them from AutoZone, just pay a deposit then you get the deposit back when you return it.

 

I just hate those things..... lol

 

It’s easy once you get everything out. You can get a 1.5” rear leaf spring lift then sell your old parts online to offset cost.

 

If you're spending money on blocks you might as well do 5100s all around with AAL in back. They're not that expensive. You should also get the OME springs so you dont have to put the snap ring up any higher than you have to. If you get something like a 887 coil you can leave the snap ring on zero and get better ride quality. Theres a ton of info on different 5100s set ups in the forum. Guys are running all sorts of different combos.

 

For your reference this is 3rd gen 5100s set at 1.55 inch and 1 inch rear block. Stock coils all around. Has about a 3/4 inch rake. Installed 25,000 miles ago. Rides great very close to stock feel. No issues. Note: Had to install ecgs bushing due to vibes from needle bearing

 

5100s all around
OME 884 Coil
1-1/2" AAL
1/4" spacer on driver side for bro lean

I like rake. I haven't measured for settle yet, but here are my numbers (ground to top of wheel well):

Driver Front - 35-1/8" Passenger Front - 35-1/4"
Driver Rear - 35-5/8" Passenger Rear - 36

Post lift install measurements with new wheels and new tires: (265-70-17)

Driver Front - 37-9/16" Passenger Front - 37-9/16"
Driver Rear - 39-1/2" Passenger Rear - 39-1/2"

However, to get the net lift from the suspension alone, we have to subtract 1" for the tire change. That said, net lift numbers work out like this:

Driver Front - 1-7/16" net lift Passenger Front - 1-5/16"
Driver Rear - 2-7/8" net lift Passenger Rear - 2-1/2"

 

You can safely install new front shocks on the Tacoma without a spring compressor.
Lift the frame up first, then use another floor jack under the suspension and loosen the top nut of the shock and slowly lower it down.

The spring won’t jump out or damage anything.

There are You Tube videos of mechanics doing it that I looked at prior to doing it myself. I had done many shocks before.
First time changing a coil-over on a vehicle and it worked like a charm.

It’s easy.
You can do it!

 

this is exactly what I did. see my build link. very easy.

 

Does anyone know whats the best notch to use for Front shocks and rear.
Thanks

 

Rear billies are not adjustable. For the fronts it depends on the amount of lift you want and what coils you’re gonna use
Better to use coils for lift instead of the shocks IMO

 

Are these measurements after things have settled?

 

No. I have not measured again since. I was waiting for at least 3 months (getting close now)

 

Dooo eeeeet..

 

LOLZ

 

I just got 5100’s put on my 2018 sport, it seems the fender cutouts on front / rear are different giving it the rake look. When measuring from the frame they are pretty close almost level. I went on the 2nd notch .66 setting and it looks a little high in front so I’m going to add a 1’’ block in the back. Should have gone to the 1.1” setting and 1’ Block in back for what I wanted.
Anyhow, I’m very impressed with the ride quality from the stock suspension to the 5100’s both on highway @70-75mph and some rough fire roads. I would recommend 5100’s.

 

It’s good to have some rake in the back for when you’re hauling, it’ll drop a bit

 

Went with 5100s and stock coils. Struts set on the 3rd notch. Looks pretty leveled.