Suspension Install help/questions

Just a background on my experience, Ive been messing with cars since highschool. During college, not so much (all my tools disappeared over the years; I has none now). This is my first truck and Ive never messed with suspensions. My first project was the AAL which I did myself (using my neighbor's tools). It was rough, but I did ok.

This Christmas Im planning on an Old Man Emu 881 up front and Bilstein 5100 in the back (AAL gave about a 1.5" lift).

Im sure I can figure out the rear Bilstein but have learned long ago not to rush into a project like this.

This is the kit Im looking at: What else do I need (bushings, etc...). What tools and what should I keep in mind as i install. Any tips/tricks would be appreciated.

Next the big one. I thought the OME set would be a relatively easy install, however this write up has changed my mind:

http://www.customtacos.com/tech/index.php?article=137

I plan on getting new bushings instead of using the old ones. Where do I get these?

I dont have the tools, experience, or stupidity to try and compress the spring. Where can I get it done and how much would it cost? Im assuming you compress the spring onto the shocks, and install the entire assembly on the truck, correct?

Any tips, tricks, etc... for installing the front suspension? What tools would i need? Thanks.

 

Search. There's a lot of information already out there covering this stuff.

 

Ok, just caught this: "We can assemble the front shocks and coil springs and ship them to you for easy installation. The assembly cost is 180.00 and includes necessary Toyota factory pieces."

Is $180 a good price? Thanks.

 

Im mechanically challenged as well and was way too scared to mess with a spring compressor, but after FJ.Johnny helped me out I wonder why the hell people are so scared of using them. Its pretty easy man and I think you can do it on your own.

 

spend 40 minutes of your own time to save $180.

 

Thanks, but how about we operate under the assumption of innocent until proven guilty. Ive been searching all week, unfortunately, the information is scattered, hard to disseminate, and now Im more confused than when I started out.

This is my post here, including lots of good information. Trust me, Ive done my research:

http://www.tacomaworld.com/forum/1s...y-how-thread-compiled-list-helpful-links.html

Maybe I missed somthing...

 

Dont have a spring compressor. Where can I find one (rent/barrow). How much do they run?

 

Not sure if they have Autozones out in VA but thats what our local auto shops are out here. They rent the compressors for free. You put down $50, take the compressor for up to 90 days, and return it at which point they give you back your $50.

 

Thanks. Ill have to look into it. We have advanced auto and Auto Zone. However, the linked write up, he stated his compressor didnt work on the 881's.

 

Find a garage in your area to compress the springs on. Unless you are experienced in these things, you can really get hurt messing with rental coil compressors. Iwould be surprised if they charged you 50 bucks to mount the springs.

That is the hardest part of the install.

This thread might help:

http://www.tacomaworld.com/forum/1st-gen-tacomas/55486-1st-gen-suspension-install.html

 

^ Thanks, Ill look into that. Where can I find the stock bushings? I dont want to reuse the current ones.

 

You can get new bushings at Toyteclifts.com

And compressing the springs really isn't that bad, with a vise to hold the shock, or just lay it on the ground.