Should I "spring" for the 2 inch or 3 inch OME lift?

Currently, it seems that ARB recommends that since I don't carry a heavy load around all the time, I should go for the 887 springs and the dakar leaf pack with I think a leaf taken out. However, they advertise this as a 2 in lift. I don't plan to run 285 anytime soon, and will stick with 265/75r16. I really just want to add capability and off road performance. I also hate that I need to budget for an ECGS Bushing install which I got quoted for at about $160. I know 4wp and toyota($600 install and alignment) will rip me off, but I don't currently have the tools nor the experience to do this myself... Therefore, if I am going to pay for the install at a shop, 4wheelparts, fellow TW member, or a toyota dealership, should I go and shoot for the 3 in setup?

 

If you're already contemplating the idea of running 285s at some point, go for the 3". You'd still have to trim and or CMC to not rub at full lock with 285s at 3" though. But I say go for 3, it will be more noticeable and you'll be happier in the long run

Edit: FYI you'll need upper arms if you go 3" in order to be able to align it to spec and avoid stress on a maxed out factory upper balljoint

 

okay, I guess that's the answer I'm looking for. I really want this to be a one time thing. And in the grand scheme of things a Cmc isn't that much. I just want the most capability and potential for the buck

 

Well your on the right track with the shocks, OME coils, and leaf packs! But my small advice is factor in aftermarket UCA's which will help in the long run with what I stated above. You can always go the slightly cheaper route with SPC UCA's that have replaceable/greasable and adjustable upper moog balljoints for custom alignment and get it all back into spec. Plus the tubular style will give more clearance between the upper arm and tire sidewall (I'm running them and love em)

 

887s will give you over 3" then settle to 2.75-3"

 

^
Not on a 3rd gen

 

Any recommendations for how to install lift? I could possibly do it myself, and don't like the idea of paying the dealer. If you didn't do it yourself, where did you get it installed?

 

Right ... didn't read

 

I do it all myself, then again it's what I do for a living. But in your case if your fairly mechanically inclined, there are YouTube videos for the front shock and OME coil install without a spring compressor but do so at your own risk, you can also find videos on how to install the leaf packs. I know the links are floating around on here somewhere so maybe someone will have em handy and post here for you

 

Heres a video of the install of OME on a 3rd gen: https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/how-to-install-a-old-man-emu-lift-on-tacoma-video.483146/

Pretty easy to do. I installed mine with a buddy. It took us most of a day for front with UCA's and back with dakars but we had never installed a lift before so we took our time.