What lift kit?

I got a 2002 ext cab Tacoma 4wd and I want to put a 3 inch lift on it but I have no idea where to start. Anytime I start looking each website has different options I can put and I get lost and overwhelmed so please help me understand everything I need to know and have in order to put a 3 inch lift on.

 

Are you looking to spend premium money for a premium ride? Or are you just looking to lift it for the looks?

I don't think buying "lift kits" is really the way to go. Just buy the following items:

- New longer coilovers
- Longer rear shock absorbers
- New leaf springs (or maybe an add-a-leaf)

"Lift kits" usually pretend to pair items that make sense with each other and offer a discount, usually neither of those things are true.

Here's what I have for my "lift kit" to give an idea (all items were purchased separately):

- Icon 2.5 Adjustable-Height Coilovers (0-3")
- Toytec Aluma Series Rear Shocks (2.0 shock bodies)
- Alcan Custom Leaf Pack (2" lift + 1" lift shackles)

 

Sas and 40”s

 

Simple answer would be buy OME 882 coils, Bilstein 5100s for all 4 corners, and OME Dakar Leaf springs. This will provide a decent quality lift for probably about $1500ish in parts costs (shipping + tax included). Anything cheaper will likely be garbage quality, but if you can spring for more $$$ (pun intended), you can get a more premium ride quality out of your lift.

 

I drive an 02 4x4 extra cab - I was in your exact spot about a year ago (paralysis by analysis).

After lots of consideration and research, I decided to go for a full Old Man Emu lift. Dakar springs, Nitrocharger Plus shocks on all four corners, and the new OME coils. Parts run from about $1500-$1800 depending on minor configurations and shipping.

You'll find that the OME lift is one of the most popular lifts on this forum, as it has a very reliable legacy in Toyota. Talk to Cruiser Outfitters if you want more information- they are a great supplier.

Also, here's a 270 page forum on First Gen OME lifts.. my truck is on page 270

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/old-man-emu-setups-on-1st-gens.141055/

Let me know if you have any questions.

 

I have an 04 ext cab and am about to put a 2 inch lift on mine. I’ve done tons of research on the topic. Lots of good advice already, stick with Bilsteins or OME or a combo of both in front and back.

the only thing I’d add is most people recommend new upper control arms with a lift over and inch. Mostly for alignment purposes. JBA/ICON/SPC seem to be highly recommended. Also if you haven’t done the lower ball joints, it’s be a good idea to do them too. Good luck and post pics when you’re done!

 

I've put ARB Old Man Emu kits on two Gen 1 Tacomas now. The first one had custom Alcan rear springs, the second standard OMEs. Terrific ride quality and I've never worn anything out in several hundred thousand miles.

The ARB/OME setup gives about a 2-inch lift. Plenty for how I use my truck and the 235/85-16 BFG KOs I run.

 

I installed a ToyTec kit about two years ago and I have been very pleased with it. Ride is good, plenty of lift.

 

Just bought the OME 2881's with bilstein 5100's off wheelers, pre assembled, the cheapest I could find anywhere.

I already have 5100's with a 3"toytec lift but it's too fucking stiff and has worn out my entire front suspension, so going back to something a bit mellower so I don't have to keep replacing shit.

Don't go over 2.5"

 

Start by lowering your numeric goal. Reading here you'll learn that 2-2.5 is about all you want to not stress your front end geometry.

 

100%. And it's important to upgrade the nut behind the wheel before ya go crazy with the mods. It's amazing what a stock truck with decent tires is capable of but of course old worn bits don't work as well. When I replaced the OE suspension at 145K miles the improvement everywhere was incredible.

 

Fox Factory w/ DSC 2.5x14 at all 4 corners

I remember the good old days, just like yours.... plain and simple but mine's a full-blown plastic surgery, botox fill tacoma now.

 

I cut my Tacoma's heart out and put it in something older like a mad scientist.