Factory TRD Lift Kit

I noticed that the factory TRD lift kit isn't specified for certain models, including 2WD. It's my understanding that the suspensions are the same for model year 2016+ on both the 2WD and 4WD platforms, so is it the simple fact that the kit is designed for the extra weight of the V-6 engine, and would lift the front end too much on a 2WD 2.7? If that's the case, couldn't the included 5100's just be adjusted to compensate? I find it interesting that the PRO grill is included in the package.

 

Included 5100s?

 

I thought I read where the shocks provided were rebranded Bilstein's. Could certainly be wrong!

 

They are probably built by Bilstein, I doubt they are rebranded off the shelf Bilstein's and I am certain they are not height adjustable.

 

So they're designed for the extra weight of the V-6 then I would imagine. I wonder if they're meant to raise AND level, or just raise while maintaining the factory rake?

 

The springs are what support the weight and those are not changed. They use what is on your truck currently.

 

Including the Pro grill seems like a reason NOT to buy the package. Non-adjustment would be another.

 

They are certainly built by Bilstein, and are height adjustable in the same way the 5100's are. 5100 have 5 notches, TRD has 3. It's assumed it's a slightly retuned 5100, however I dont think enough people have messed around enough to give you a conclusive answer for your application.

According to google... It's a 2" level. 2 up front and 1 in the rear. The kit also comes with a pro grill and a fog light delete required by some states. Oem led fogs do have built in adjusters to get them back on the ground which is nice.

I'm not sure what all three settings are for. The top circlip setting is for 4x4 v6 double cab and the middle circlip is for 4x4 v6 access cab, but the bottom isn't specified for any application in install manual. Maybe the lowest setting would get you what your looking for?

Is there a reason why you are looking at the TRD factory lift over just ordering 5100's?

 

I'm essentially looking for a "kit" that provides exactly what this TRD option includes. I could certainly do without the grille. I have a 2WD SR 2.7, and there's a dizzying array of options (5100's, UCA's, spindles, AAL's, leaf packs, etc.), so I was thinking this may be an easy way to get a simple lift/level "in a box." Trying to put the individual components together to make sure the correct lift can be achieved front and back is daunting. Not that alone, but using stock vs. OME springs, varying kinds of AAL's and full leaf packs, blocks, etc., I just don't know what to buy. In the end, I just want to make sure I'm not stressing driveline and suspension components as part of the upgrade, but my truck will never be off road, so I don't need an elaborate $3K set-up, but do want to do it right (no spacers/blocks for example).

 

Just to give you some info. I have the lift I put just the shocks on my truck.
I only did the middle perch as I didnt want the full 2"
So on the v6 the first notch is 1" 2nd notch is 1.5" and 3rd is 2"
So not sure about the weight difference but maybe that could give you some idea.

 

This is a good explainer to help you sort through your options: https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/the-ultimate-tacoma-lift-guide.509171/unread

 

Am I thinking of the same TRD lift kit that your are?

These have no mention of adjustability and the pictures show no notches for spring seat height adjustment.

https://pressroom.toyota.com/step-up-new-tacoma-trd-lift-kit-now-available/

 

I get that! This is a spacer lift rear though? Rear spacer lift is different than a front spacer lift but some do think lower of them. Rear lifts are easy and cheap so if you hate fix it. The only reason I went this route is for warranty coverage on a new truck. If I was out of warranty, or even close, id piece together a 5100 set up and use the money I saved on wheels or tires. For 2" and under you "shouldn't" need anything fancy and expensive. Don't need ucas, spindals would be extreme overkill, and you could substitute an aal for blocks if you want (like the kit comes with).
If your looking for exactly what this kit comes with it's so much cheaper to source yourself. Here's what you would need ontop of the 5100 to duplicate the suspension side of the kit. For you application, call Bilstein tell them what you have and what you want (just keep stock springs) and they will tell you what setting you need to be on.

 

I believe so! The spring seat hides the grooves, I know there are a couple pictures floating around that show them. My truck was in route when that article released and I called my dealership that day to get one. Here is the install procedure showing the settings.

 

Yep, I'd say there are 3 settings. Sounds like Toyota intends that they be set per cab configuration (probably for height?). From the diagram they look very close to each other. Are they like 3/16” apart?

 

So it's essentially a Bilstein-type set-up using the factory coil and a block in the rear. Interesting that the lowest circlip setting is not mentioned. I'm sure this would work on a 2.7L 2WD, even though it's omitted from the fitment guide, but the lift in the front would likely be more like 2.25" to 2.5". If Toyota engineers validated the 2/1 lift that this provides, then I'd say any brand that stays in this range won't impact the suspension components given that this one falls under the Toyota warranty. Also not included are other things like diff drops, etc., so Toyota is basically saying a 2/1 lift is OK in this simple form.

 

My unprofessional opinion is yes, you are correct. I think if you went with the TRD kit an aal might be a better level in case it is a little higher? I still fully support going the 5100 route and getting more adjustability at a cheaper cost. I like the full warranty aspect of the TRD kit but you are applying to a vehicle not specified under the kit and won't get it. For the price of the kit (not wanting the grill) you could do a Bilstein 6112 & 5160 set up and have a better lift than us TRD guys. Now if you want the TRD heritage grill as an oem part and not Chinese knock off it makes it more palletable, but it seems like you don't.

 

Just go with a 5100/6112 and save yourself the trouble.

 

Lurking here, but interested in learning more about this set up.