230k Tune Up/suspension lifting opinions

Hallo all!

As the title says, I am approaching 230k miles on my 3.4 2002 Tacoma. I've been saving my dimes n dollars for a much needed tune-up, and while I'm at it tackling my first suspension lift.

For the tune up, the timing belt is the priority (last done at 110k). I saw a $350 eBay package that looked to have everything i needed
https://www.ebay.com/i/323490275537...Hek1oGRuma1KQ-HLXdKDPpcPU-VUmH0oaApxKEALw_wcB

Anything else i should do while I'll be in there? Will also be doing spark plugs and caps if anyone has recommendations.

As for the lift, I've been looking at the standard 3" 5100 with AAL. Truck is used primarily on road hauling dirtbikes with the occasional trip up to snow. For this reason I was also thinking of a set of UCA's to help with alignment and on road handling. Down the road, illI be towing a small enclosed trailer with camper combo, or a single axle toy hauler. Again, any recommendations or reviews would help as I am completely green! Not sure if anything else is needed in the front besides the control arms..

The lift kit: https://www.bilsteinlifts.com/shop/..._cWGcQLVgLXjoCAbLADTWqv8dFTr_RHoaAp3nEALw_wcB

Thanks, and looking to learn as I begin to build!

 

For the timing belt / water pump kit, I've never purchased or done it but when I do I'll be ordering the kit on ebay sold by aircabinman. Have only heard good things about the products / kits sold by him. Might want to look at those to see if everything is there you need / want.

For the suspension I messaged Wheeler's Off Road (members on this forum) and talked through with them what I wanted and they steered me in the direction to get what I needed. I installed 5100s all around but used my stock coils in the front. I see the bilstein kit you linked there includes an aal for the rear but I don't see new u bolts. I thought it was a good idea to go with new u bolts but if I remember correctly the FSM does not call them out as non-reusable.

Also, while I was in there (in the front end) I put in new sway bar end links and lower ball joints (with new bolts) that I ordered from Camelback Toyota. If the lower ball joints are still original on your truck I'd recommend replacing them. My driver's side end link was shot (I discovered while in there) so ordered them up and had to wait a few days with the truck on stands till they got to me.

If you want to go 3" I've read you'll need UCA's to correct alignment. But if you stay under 3" my understanding is that the stock UCAs are fine. I stayed under 3" and did not buy new UCAs.

Check out the videos on youtube by Timmy the Toolman. He's put up some very complete videos on timing belt and front end suspension (and many other things) that I watched multiple times. Helped me immensely in being prepared. Not only did I buy a lot of components and parts but a lot of tools as well.

 

Thank you! I will add those to the list, asawellas new u bolts. Once I get aamore acuratea idea illI get in touch with wheelers!

I'm off to YouTube for some education

 

If you want 2-3" on the front, I would definetely not reuse your stock coils and just jack them up to the top notch on the shock. It will ride as stiff as a board like that. I would look into pairing some OME 881 or 882 coils with the 5100 on the lowest setting to get the lift that you want.