Getting closer to pulling the trigger

On lifting my Tacoma that is.

I have an 07 4X4 DC bought new almost exactly 8 years and 152,000 miles ago. I've been on the fence about trading for something newer or putting some money into this one and keeping it another 100,000 or so. I'm leaning hard on just keeping it and buying something less expensive to use as a DD. Since it has been the primary family vehicle I've kept it stock, but if I just drive it when I need a truck some minor modifications won't be a problem.

I don't plan on hard core off-roading, but I do use 4X4 quite often as a hunting vehicle. I have to work around some deeply rutted farm roads and some National Forest service roads can get rough in winter. I've hunted Colorado with it in the past and we get more snow in the northern mountains here than many realize. I'd like enough clearance to run chains on all 4 tires, can only get them on the rear now and that is close.

I talked to a local 4X4 shop yesterday and they recommended Bilstein shocks all around with the front raised about 1.5-2" with a spacer block under the rear leafs. That sounds similar to many recommendations I've seen here. I've driven 4X4 vehicles for over 40 years, but never lifted one so I'm clueless on that aspect of it and looking for advice.

Currently running 265/75/16 tires and don't want anything bigger. I pull a trailer some and don't want to lose any more performance or re gear. I'll probably go with a more aggressive tire when these wear out since it won't be a DD anymore.

I'm also thinking I'll need either wheel spacers or new wheels with a different off-set to make chains work on the front. Not sure if I want to go down either of those roads though. May just have to settle with chains on the rear. That should be good enough.

Advice is appreciated, any alternatives or downsides I need to be aware of.

 

Well... where do I begin? Lifting a vehicle has it +'s and -'s. I have Bilstein 5100's all around with the front set at .85 and I have enjoyed my decision. The only downside is that my leaf springs are really worn down and you can definitely tell it. I have a one inch block in the rear due to my saggy leafs and it rides the same as the stock setup. I will warn you that the ride does stiffen up with the new shocks, but I think you'll enjoy it. The lift kit doesn't really add ground clearance, so if you're after that you'll need bigger tires. I believe a small lift compliments a Tacoma very well. You'll however need to perform some measurements to "estimate" the amount of lift desired. This can be done by measuring from the top of the fender to the center of the wheel. You would then add the amount of inches to that measurement to obtain the lifted look. Keep in mind that's an estimate because suspensions can act funny. Considering you have a 4x4, you'll need to check out a differential drop. Some people suggest them some don't, so research it and decide for yourself. You shouldn't need wheel spacers for the addition of a 2-3" lift. I'm not sure about the chain compatibly though. Hope this helped!

 

Ground clearance is OK for what I do, there are more negatives than I'd want to fool with to go to a bigger tire. I'd have to re gear to be happy and it isn't worth the expense to me. The 265/75/16's are already an inch taller than factory, but put the wheels a bit closer to the fenders than I'd like. A 1.5-2" lift will give me back the fender clearance plus a little more. With chains on the rear now it is close and with much flexing they may hit sheet metal. I should have plenty of room with only a small lift. The brake lines are pretty close to the tires on the front. I'm afraid chains would hit, but moving the tires about 1-1.5" farther out should make that work. I'm just not sure if it is worth the extra strain on wheel bearings etc. from having wheels farther out. I hear mixed messages about wheel spacers and I'm not sure I want the added expense of wheels.

 

I've never had wheel spacers, so I can't speak on them. I do believe you'd enjoy the lift. I upgraded my stock progressive springs to sport linear springs and enjoy my decision. If you're still using the stock springs that came on the truck, I would suggest going aftermarket or find an OEM take off pair. There seems to be quite a few floating around on the buy/sell/trade section.

 

Tag to follow

Interested in seeing what info comes up in this thread as I am in the same boat....

 

Sounds like you have a pretty good grasp on what you need to make your truck perform like you want and need.

1.5-2" of lift sounds about perfect but I'd recommend using coils in the front and leave the Bilsteins set at 0, mainly because your stock coils have 152,000 miles on them and it will ride better to boot. Same for the rear, new leaf packs would be a good move but are fairly expensive. I'd recommend an at least AAL over the block to gain a little more load carrying ability and to brace up your (probably) softened leaves.

Wheelspacers will gain you a little clearance behind the tires if that is a problem with your chains but will reduce outside clearance at the fender somewhat. I think you'll be fine still since you're keeping your tire size reasonable. I'd personally consider going to a skinnier tire like a 235/85r16 and not run spacers. This narrower tire is less likely to rub but maintains the height and ground clearance. It will also most likely be lighter which will maintain towing performance better.

If safety of a wheelspacer is the issue, don't worry. Buy a good brand that is hubcentric (Spidertrax), install as instructed (torque to proper specs), and be willing to check them at tire rotations. No problems.