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New Leaf Spring Install

Discussion in 'Suspension' started by Pearson, Feb 23, 2022.

  1. Feb 23, 2022 at 3:12 PM
    #1
    Pearson

    Pearson [OP] Well-Known Member

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    Elliott
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    Hello all, I picked up a new/used 0 mile set of 2018 TDR 4X4 Leaf springs for my 2012 Pre-runner. I have never done a spring swap so I have a few questions and would like to be made privy to any known quality how-to wright ups on the topic. What would you have done differently, who makes the best components? What is reusable and what is not etc...

    First, Greasable Bolts, I found the Dobinsons greaseable bolts and like them. But am blown off my feet at the $25.00 each pricing. I guess all in all I am asking for you guys to share any helpful tips or tricks that you know about the available parts and install process.

    I should add that at the advice of you guys I have a full set of New Bilstein Adjustable 5100's that will accompany the new Leafs.
     
    Last edited: Feb 23, 2022
  2. Feb 23, 2022 at 3:21 PM
    #2
    whatstcp

    whatstcp currently drunk so don't listen to me

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    Since you're using OEM leaf springs then grease able bolts don't make sense, those are for polyurethane bushings. Just give them a good lather of antiseize (the OEM bolts). The only bolts that you should consider replacing are the u bolts. As for tutorials, YouTube will be your friend here. A lot of good walkthroughs on how to do it and have it be painless and smooth
     
    Last edited: Feb 23, 2022
    tcjacado and wi_taco like this.
  3. Feb 23, 2022 at 3:43 PM
    #3
    Pearson

    Pearson [OP] Well-Known Member

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    Thanks, this is a good start as it reminded me that I left out some info. I have a new set of Energy Poly bushings for the Leafs if needed. So should I remove the new OE and replace them with the Poly or leave the new OE ones in place? My truck is not a 4X4 and is on road 95% of the time and only light trail the rest. And would one consider replacing the u-bolts due to wear? Or is it stretch on the threads from the install that make them less desirable to reuse? I ask this because I have the OE's that came off of the 2018 and they have 0 miles on them as well.
     
  4. Feb 23, 2022 at 4:45 PM
    #4
    wi_taco

    wi_taco My skid plates give rocks taco flavored kisses

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    If it were mine, given what you said I’d keep the OE rubber bushings.

    U bolts You should consider a consumable item. Yes I believe due to stretch and what not. They don’t cost that much and you really don’t want to have to mess with them again so it’s cheap safety insurance.

    +1 to everything @whatstcp said otherwise.
     
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  5. Feb 23, 2022 at 4:56 PM
    #5
    eon_blue

    eon_blue Most Improved Member

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    Stick with the rubber bushings especially since they're already in there and brand new. Poly bushings have advantages but they are often noisy no matter how well you grease them.

    If you stick with the rubber bushings, make sure you torque the bolts down after the truck is on the ground (not on jack stands). Rubber bushings need to be torqued under weight. Poly bushings do not.
     
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  6. Feb 23, 2022 at 5:10 PM
    #6
    Pearson

    Pearson [OP] Well-Known Member

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    Is there a top-quality offering in U-bolts that is a known value around here? We have a place nearby that I think actually manufacture them. Is there such a thing as a better U-bolt?

    Lastly, what is the OE length? I am told that I should expect like 1.5" of lift with the Aft 2016 Leaf so I'm guessing the longer the better. I mean I can always cut off any extra bolt right?

    This is what I am finding in abundance, are they of good quality or should I buy OEM from the Stealership?

    https://www.amazon.com/American-Aut...+spring+u-bolts+toyota+tacoma,aps,257&sr=8-16
     
    Last edited: Feb 23, 2022

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