2013 Tacoma Non-TRD Suspension Headaches

Bought a 2013 Tacoma SR5 V6 Base model Access Cab about 6 months ago. Next on my mod list is a lift/level package, but I'm getting a headache with the huge variety of options; all of which are confusing the hell out of me even more.

I drive 95% on road and 5% mild off road (nothing too crazy). I pull one four wheeler in the bed and one on a trailer and the occasional standard camper. The dealership told me that I ought to use their service to put a Toytec system on, but at $2150 for the package and another $1000 for labor, I about threw up in my mouth. They also cautioned about me going elsewhere, as any upgrade will kill my warranty. Duh!!!

Anywho, I want to put on no bigger than 265/75/16 A/T tires; this is my daily driver and I need some sort of fuel economy. I've heard nasty things about blocks and spacer kits as they could harm the truck in the long run. I've heard mixed emotions about add-a-leafs as they make the ride too bouncy. I just want something that will give me great ride quality, great aesthetics, a higher stance, and still be fully functional...all at a cost that won't require me to rob a bank.

I've researched several systems, but would still like the experts of TACOMAWORLD, that's right, you guys/gals, to give me your best advice. I am new to this world and need a baseline to begin comparisons. OME? Rancho? BDS? Rough Country? Bilstein? Toytec? Like I said, it's giving me a helluva headache.

Thanks y'all

 

http://www.tacomaworld.com/forum/suspension/11282-tacoma-lift-faq-guide-read.html

did you read thru this at all?

Welcome to TW btw.

 

also, your warranty wont be void with a simple lift, the only thing may be if something related to any lift/mod would be covered, it is also the burrden of Toyota to prove it was the cause.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magnuson–Moss_Warranty_Act

 

Been there before

Reading every review I could find on every possible kit I could find. Definitely makes you crazy. The suspension guide is a great start especially if you're new at the lift kit scene like I was (first truck).

What is your budget on the lift?

 

Also @2100 plus 1000 for an install they are raping you, complete Horse dooky!

I was just on toytec's site, not one kit was over 1300 bucks. If they were doing another brands systems, which they sell its still cheaper its possible.

Scare tactics to get you to buy from them.

http://toyteclifts.3dcartstores.com/Complete-Lift-Kits_c_294.html


Bilstien 5100's with a AAL and LR UCA's and call it a day.

 

This x100000000
Also check out your local area thread. See if there is a mod day coming up.

 

Was going to recommend a progressive AAL kit over just a AAL. The AAL sags and causes bro lean, ask me how I know . I am upgrading to the Dakars w/ the

$77 D29XL Leaf Spring

D29XL. That's why I asked if the OP had a strict budget.

Budget -> Progressive AAL kit
No budget -> new leaf pack

 

I'd say this is a pretty good start. As for my budget, I'd love to keep it under $1000 installed as I still need to get tires and I have a few more things I'd like to get.

Do y'all know if the AAL will create a bouncier ride? Should I bite the bullet and get a full leaf replacement?

 

Not sure if "bouncier" is the right word. I've heard people say stiffer/harsh ride but they just throw a sand bag in the bed and they're fine. I didn't notice a difference with the AAL after it was installed.

Because you tow and if you can afford it, I recommend replacing the leaf pack over the AAL. I didn't and am paying for it now; literally in shipping costs

 

These actually work well, just installed a set on a buddies new Tacoma, he has a camper and tows quads and it worked out well. if you do go with another leaf pack keep in mind you'll more then likely need a longer rear shock.

 

Thanks for the Wheelersoffroad link. I like the input y'all gave. I guess one more question. Since geekhouse23 said he is replacing the AAL with a new leaf kit, what are your opinions on the OME complete suspension kit offered on the wheelersoffroad site? Are the Nitro shocks better or worse than the Bilstein's? I like the build SoCalTaco65 provided, but the info about the AALs is sort of what I've been hearing lately. I guess the difference between the OME kit and SoCal's is the addition of the UCRs.

 

If I had to do it again, I would have gone with the full OME kit with the Dakar leaf pack. In my extensive research, I found people that like the Bilsteins and people that like the OME. I don't think you can go wrong either way but I went with OME based on certain reviews of people having Bilsteins and a year or two later upgrading to OME. I did not want to spend the money on "two lift kits" when I can buy it once and do it "right". There are so many options and it really comes down to the type of driving you do. I am like you, 80% pavement 20% moderate off roading, nothing crazy but still tow motorcycles, dirt bikes, boats, jet-skis, haul wood, etc. and wanted something that would last, but is functional for me.

I went with the Light Racing UCAs for reviews and price. Can't beat them for the price. Love 'em.

Here is a good thread if you're leaning more towards OME:
http://www.tacomaworld.com/forum/suspension/258245-old-man-emu-questions-answers-pictures.html

 

and a note on the UCA's, the reason is to correct alignment issues when you lift the front of the truck.
fyi

 

I have full OME with Dakar leaf packs.
With the bed empty, I think the front rides too stiff but the leafs have a smooth ride for the back. With a few hundred pounds toward front of the bed or a couple passengers in cab, ride is good. The Dakars have done very well with the loads of mulch and gravel I've hauled. Even full loads driving on rough roads, crossing railroads, and driving through my property haven't made it bottom out.

 

Just had a Dakar pack minus an overload installed on my DCSB. Definitely stiffer than stock which is an improvement, and don't look saggy. Should ride even better with some people and stuff in the back. Got about 2" after install.

 

Thanks everyone. Now the big question...How do I convince Toyota to stay true to my warranty despite installing a lift kit?

 

^^^this

 

just because they have a contractor install an after market system does not change the fact its not stock, its nothing more then scare tactic, I bought mine with it already lifted before going down 2 different paths to meet my needs.

They cant void the entire warranty, only the portion of parts that may be affected by the non Toyota parts ( after market) in which they have the burden of proof for the cause and affect.

keep in mind if you go in with a long travel equipped truck you wont get anything but a ROFL, if its within reason it wont be an issue.

 

with your budget i'd go with the bilsteins up front, skip the control arms unless you find you need them later, grab an add a leaf for the rear and some sky jacker h7045 rear shocks, half the price of the billies and an inch longer down travel, i have wheeled these shocks for 2yrs and they ride great. as for your warranty just do the lift wherever you want, the only parts not covered will be the parts you change. the billies up front don't allow any extra down travel so your cv joints stay within the manufacturers operating range at all times. sounds like your dealership are some doucheheads trying to pressure you.

 

Thanks a lot everybody. Definitely heard from the experts. I'll let y'all know what I go with.