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Front shocks?

Discussion in '1st Gen. Tacomas (1995-2004)' started by hillinsan, Nov 26, 2011.

  1. Nov 26, 2011 at 2:26 PM
    #1
    hillinsan

    hillinsan [OP] Active Member

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    Just bought my first tacoma, I know the front shocks are bad so what im trying to figure out is what front shocks to buy that will work with a 2.5 or 3 inch lift. The driver side looks the worst the top of the shock above the revtek lift seems to be off center to the spring and the front end bounces up and down alot. Is it just a rubber spacer that would cause it to be off center? Any help would be appreciated. Thanx..
     
  2. Nov 26, 2011 at 2:42 PM
    #2
    Norton

    Norton Senior Member

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    Welcome to TW!

    The forum's search function will help you find answers to many of your questions, most likely in the Suspension and 1st Gen Forums. FWIW, Bilstein and OME shocks are very popular, and both will work with 2"-3" lifts.

    Don't forget to consult the experts at and/or DownSouth Motorsports before you buy - both offer competitive pricing, great customer service, and TW member discounts.
     
  3. Nov 26, 2011 at 11:24 PM
    #3
    Digiratus

    Digiratus Adventurer

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    On a truck with a revtek spacer left, the shock is still basicaqlly a stock length shock. So if you have to replace it there are a few options open to you.
    You will find that the majority of experienced users will suggest removing the revtek spacer in favor of a repalcement shock from Bilstein that can provide up to 2.5" of lift. Check out Downsouth Motorsprt for RCD Billistein 5100s.

    http://downsouthmotorsports.com/i-1...pre-runner-4wd-front-pre-load-adjustable.html
     
  4. Nov 26, 2011 at 11:37 PM
    #4
    TacoMX

    TacoMX TW's Official anti body-lift pundit

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    you can always get rid of the spacer and run bilstein 5100's on 2.5'' if you are low on cash. But the best option is to buy OME or Bilstein shocks and run a lift coil.

    Good luck
     
  5. Nov 27, 2011 at 1:35 PM
    #5
    hillinsan

    hillinsan [OP] Active Member

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    how do i tell what lift is on the rear if at all. seems a bit higher in the rear than the pic ubove on digiratus's pic? i want to make sure the bilstein 5100 is going to be acceptable highth with the rear of my truck.
     
  6. Nov 27, 2011 at 3:56 PM
    #6
    TacoMX

    TacoMX TW's Official anti body-lift pundit

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    take a picture of the rear end and the leaf springs from multiple angles and we can tell you.

    It could be blocks, AAL, or a shackle.
     
  7. Nov 27, 2011 at 4:31 PM
    #7
    hillinsan

    hillinsan [OP] Active Member

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    Ok so I went to a local guy here and he looked at my truck. so whom ever had it before put a 2.5 inch lift in the rear with blocks and a revtek spacer kit on the front. The front shocks are shot and the driver side gromet it worn bad. Gonna get the bilstein 5100 adjustable preload to 2.5 and have my buddy help me. Any input would be helpful. is it a pain in the butt or is my buddy right,kinda simple and easy? I was worried about the spring giving me problems when putting the 5100's in. do i need to compress the spring with a tool or what? lol im such a newb at all this but im determined to get er done this next weekend.
     
  8. Nov 27, 2011 at 4:33 PM
    #8
    TacoMX

    TacoMX TW's Official anti body-lift pundit

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    Its not hard. You will need to get spring compressors from autozone or advanced auto (rent). If its your first time, it will be frustrating, but not too hard of a job.

    For the rear I would take out that terrible block and do an AAL from Toytec.

    Goodluck
     
  9. Nov 27, 2011 at 5:21 PM
    #9
    hillinsan

    hillinsan [OP] Active Member

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    Thanks everyone for your help!!!! You guys rock!!!!! Ordered the bilstein 5100's on toytec and bushing and washer kit with the black friday coupon code and im under $230.00. this will save me alot for now, next will be the aal on the rear and get rid of those nasty blocks :)
     
  10. Nov 27, 2011 at 6:17 PM
    #10
    TacoMX

    TacoMX TW's Official anti body-lift pundit

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    sounds good! get pics for us when you put them on. You will be very happy with the bilsteins and the AAL then the spacers/blocks.

    In the near future you should add Eibach coils to your bilsteins in the front for 3'' and a new leaf pack to level it out.
     
  11. Nov 27, 2011 at 9:42 PM
    #11
    Digiratus

    Digiratus Adventurer

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    Review this thread for tips on the 5100s install.

    http://www.tacomaworld.com/forum/1st-gen-tacomas/114418-bilstein-5100-install-thread.html
     

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