The rare access cab.

You got a sandstone FJ, nice. I fucking love FJ's.

I'd recommend you go 5100's to lift the front an inch or so (set them on the 2nd or 3rd notch, .85 and 1.75 inches) and get yourself a 1 ort 1.5" add a leaf for the rear. It's a good way to get what you're after and you'll like the ride more than the spacer route. Good luck!

 

Exactly the route I wanted to go! However, I couldn't find a firm answer on what springs to use. I'm very interested in OME springs since my FJ rides like it has concrete slabs for struts. I'm still trying to do my research on 884 vs 885 vs 886 springs with 5100s on the basic notch. Not sure if that's the way most people go, or if I should just keep stock springs. Since I'm rocking an AC with 5 spd MT, I'm not sure if it plays a huge factor. I know I won't be adding a winch or bumper ever. Also, I'm trying to avoid UCAs, since this truck will be a daily driver.

Sorry for the word vomit, just feeling like my fellow extended cab tacos could share some knowledge on this new Taco owner.

 

I've installed 2 sets of Billys on a Tacoma, both 2nd gen access cabs, both with the stock springs, both trucks had shells. Neither one needed UCA's to get a decent alignment.

I had to toss a 1.5" AAL in the rear of the truck set at 1.75 to avoid bro lean. The 2011 set at .85 I kept the rear stock and still had a bit of rake with the topper. These are 2nd gen trucks but it's a starting point, and a should give you a good idea on what direction to take.

When you pair aftermarket springs with the 5100s you should generally use the lowest setting. I never really understood that route, springs aren't that expensive but not necessary. I really liked the ride in both trucks with the extra preload on the stock springs.

No worries on the questions Mikel, this is a big decision and you're doing it right - research first!

 

Do you happen to know how much a .85"/1.75" lift will settle to once on for a couple of thousand miles? My build will be exactly like your white Tacoma but just in silver, and hoping I can score a hood scope in the near future. I guess I never thought of using stock shocks. I've always heard a bad things about Billys in the FJ community but surprised by the contrast in opinions the Tacoma community has.

 

Honestly I've never had any of my lifts settle in front. Not enough to notice/measure at least. The rear is a different story, but depends on weight and how you use your truck.

 

Truly great help. Thanks so much for lending a hand to the noobie!

 

No worries my man.

Keep reading on here, looking at pics, etc. If this site has taught me anything.....it is that someone on here has been there, done that and you can learn from it!

 

I love the look of the AC but with 3 kids DC was mandatory. Probably will have to go with a Tundra next time.

 

There will be someone who may trade you and add cash, just an FYI!

 

You're going to want to add a rear lift. With 2" in the front, it'll bro-lean.

I also don't recommend spacer lifts. You'd be set with 5100's all around + an AAL for the rear!

 

any input on what size AAL? The only thing that’s going to cause weight in the rear is leer topper, and the dog in the back sometime (150lbs)

also wondering if I should stay with stock springs or install OME 885?

 

1.5" AAL or a progressive AAL

I'm indifferent on springs or not. Not a significant enough increase in ride quality to justify OME springs in my opinion. But I would ask on the other threads!

 

So I have a SnugTop rebel on my Access Cab. The shell levelled the back out when I put it on, so if all you want is a level truck (and not necessarily lifted) then wait to see how that goes with the shell before planning suspension modifications.

I have a Headstrong AAL on mine with no overload and got roughly 2" of lift initially. I'm sure it's settled a bit but I haven't measured it. That's with the topper on the back that was previously levelling the truck itself.

The 5100's are awesome for lifting the truck and giving a great ride on the pavement, but not the best kit if you wanna trail blast.

 

Got it, seems like that the route I'm going to take. No trail blazing here, just want to give the Tacoma a better stance since I can't stand how they sit stock.

 

Yeah, a rear shell might settle the rear for level.

My rear AAL was paired with a front Lift, still had a bit of rake so that the truck would sit level when I loaded it with tools/camping gear.

 

Nice wheels. Had the same wheels in my FJ. Did you remove the TRD letters?

 

Hey! I hadn't even thought of that! Good idea. Ad on Craigs list mebbe'? There's a couple places in Spokane that specialize in doing mods for 4x4's (Lifts/suspension/tires/rims/etc) .. Maybe stop by and let them put a word out? I'm not sure I know the right direction to go to get something like that going.

 

Nice truck! But I'm liking the background just as much... Where's this at? I'm just guessing, but looks like northern AZ or southern UT.??

 

Thanks, that is Utah,Moab area. Those are Potash evaporation ponds in the background , the other one is near Warner lake c.g.