Mall crawler suspension options?

So, I'm sure this question has been asked before, but I haven't been able to locate a thread using the search,

I have a 2014 dcsb SR5 prerunner and looking to get a lift kit but I don't want to go overboard if it really isn't necessary. The main function for my truck will be mostly on road driving and towing/hauling stuff. There will be some light off roading, but considering my location, not a whole lot of mountainous terrain. Currently stock, but will probably be adding steel plate bumpers(f&r) down the road shortly.

I'm mainly interested in a 3 inch lift that not only serves aesthetics, but also function. I definitely like a smooth ride where not every bump feels like it's going to shatter the truck.

Looking to see what others would suggest for suspension components/kits. I already know I will need UCA's for alignment, but open to suggestion of type and company. Also, pretty set on a dakar leaf pack.

Looking forward to reading from you all. Thanks in advance.

 

If you want 3 inches of lift, nothing crazy and a ride similar to stock, the all popular Bilstein 5100s (or 6112s) up front and 5160s in the back

 

As far as UCA, no need to go too pricey, and there are a lot of options, though the popular budget choice seems to be Light Racing

 

Based on what you said get the Maxtrac Spindles. I don't know what your budget is, but to do it right you will need to spend some coin. If you don't have the funds to do it the correct way then save them up before venturing into lifts. A good budget to start with that includes coil overs, shocks, spindles, leaf packs, rims and tires is about $5000 just for the parts. If you do it right the first time you will avoid lots of frustration.

 

Maxtrac Spindles, 2" AAL = factory ride on the cheap. This will give the front 4" of lift and should level the rear.


Nothing crazy needed for a mall crawler.

 

The factory leaf springs are garbage. The Dakars lift 2.5+- and the spindles compliment each other. You will need longer shocks for the rear. No sense in piece meal the lift if you want to do it right.

On my rig I put quite a bit of miles on it. One thing when you research you will find that cutting corners leads to problems, vibration, carrier bearing issues, and overall poor experience. You are on the right track you just have to avoid the noise and set a realistic budget.

 

That's wild. Given that in your opinion a budget of $5000 is needed, is it safe to assume 95% of trucks I see lifted have not done it right?

 

OP asked for a reasonable lift and I offered him a solution... A $5000 solution for a mall crawler is, in a word, excessive.

 

The best solution is no lift at all.

The uses you describe for the vehicle are well met in stock form.

 

Like everyone said, maxtracs! Love em.

 

Is there an advantage to a spindle lift as opposed to a full coilover lift like an icon package? Like for towing capacity or ride quality.

Ideally I don't want to lift more than 3 inches. I have elderly parents that I sometimes drive around and don't want it to be too difficult for them to get in.

 

You will get the best ride quality from the spindle lift since you will not need to preload the springs. It will be more difficult to get in the truck.

As far as the $5000 dollar figure I put out there as a reasonable amount to spend, keep in mind these are $30000 trucks. If you do a spindle lift to raise the front 4 inches you will more than likely need something for the rear like new leaf springs. Since the Toyota springs are garbage it makes no sense adding a leaf or blocks to them. You will also want new rims and tires to compliment the additional space, I would think, or at least tires.

My estimated investment breaks down as follows:

1. Maxtrac Spindles $500.00
2. Brake lines $50
3. Dakar Leaf Springs $500
4. Bushings $40
5. Fox front coilovers $750
6. Fox rear shocks $450
7. Spidertrax 1.25 spacer $125
8. Fuel wheels $900
9. Nitto 285 tires $1300

Estimated total $4570

That total could vary a little based on specific components chosen but is a good entry to mid grade suspension UPGRADE. Again we are talking $30000 vehicles that occasionally will need to travel safely at 75+ MPH. You are investing in the vehicle and ride quality as well as safety of the occupants.

 

bilsteins at 2.5 and an add a leaf in the back and your golden.i put mine at 1.75 in the front and rode like a dream.

 

I'm not concerned about price. I am well aware of it not being a cheap endeavor to be done correctly. Already have new wheels and tires with 4.5" backspacing. Would it still be necessary for the spacers? Also, where are you able to locate for fox coilovers for that price? Seems like a very good price. I've been looking @HeadStrong Off-Road and they look to average $1100.

 

I believe he is referring to the Fox 2.0 series.

http://www.headstrongoffroad.com/store/p52/Fox_Performance_Series_2.0"_Coilover_-_985-02-002.html

RJM