Daily Driving - the cheapskate build edition

I mean....I feel like there are definitely worse vehicle names out there.

 

Oh yeah like Squeaky Front Drivers Suspension That No One Can Seem to Diagnose! That's a little long.

 

Well that’s one example for sure

 

Playin around with some unistrut.

 

Had a good time camping with a bunch of friends this weekend. Feels like I’m starting to get my simple weekender setup dialed in too.

 

Apparently a couple people got a bushing that didn't fit their truck and now some folks are stressing out over it. I figured I'd go ahead and do the swap while I'm in there taking things apart to put the struts on - and I'm a sucker for data - so here's a collection of ECGS Bushing measurements.

 

These all seem to be within the same general range - since it’s a clamshell style I’m thinking there’s some “wiggle room” - as that bushing is installed it’s going to squeeze a bit - as I am thinking about it the only issue would be if it wasn’t large enough to be a pressed fit.

 

Yep, seems like everyone's getting basically the same results. I mostly measured mine just for the piece of mind that it was the right size before I start taking the CV out. I guess the folks who got the wrong one must have ended up with the part for a 7.5" clamshell.

 

Finally got the lift installed. Feels good learning how to do it myself. Major props to the fellas in the Alabama forum for help with this project.

 

Had around 28,000mi on the stock Hitachi setup. I ran it for a day or so without the sway bar on the Eibach Stage 2 kit. Ultimately, that just wasn't for me - at least not yet. I'm not a huge fan of how soft it corners with these 600# springs and no bar. Put the sway bar back on with the relocation brackets and got a fresh alignment. I gotta say, I love driving this truck so much now more than I already did! This suspension feels pretty much perfect for how I drive and the amount of weight on the truck.

 

Please never get rid of those wheels. By far the best looking factory wheel!

 

I agree. They're definitely my favorites as far as look goes, I just wish they were a 17" to open up more tire options.

 

You briefly mentioned before how you like how the ride is, and that it has improved. I'm considering getting the same suspension. How does it handle in town and on highway going over bumps, potholes, etc. compared to stock?

 

I’d say it’s almost night and day difference. Now keep in kind I’m coming from the stock SR5 setup and I’ve never driven a sport, so I don’t know how those two compare. But the Eibach’s seem like they recover better. You still feel the initial hit when you go over something, but it doesn’t bounce you around afterward. You’re gonna have to slow down for the speed bump no matter what, but with this kit you don’t get seasick from the after-effects. I drive washboard forest roads every day to get to and from my house, and I have significantly better control and ride over the stuff that used to be a nightmare.

 

Just for the chuckles, I took some pictures of the truck on my way to work Friday.

 

I also finally got my fire extinguisher installed.

 

I just came across your build thread, I love it! It’s always nice to see another well done 3rd Gen SR5.

I’m digging the info on the new suspension as well, because I plan on swapping out the hitachi’s on mine at some point.

 

Thanks man! Form over function, amiright?!

 

Haha yes! Always!