Seeking knowledgable lift guys

Hey guys I need some info. New to the "lift" scene. Looking into a 3" in the next few months. I have seen some posts on here about spacer lifts. Those are trash, correct? How can I tell if the dealer or third party garage I go to is taking me for a run? What are quality components? What's the lingo / terminology I can use and not sound like a dumbass when having a conversation about this stuff to another human. Sorry for the random questions. Figured I would ask the Tacoma family on here and a reliable source with free time will answer these

 

@JerryTaco

 

Welcome to the "scene." There are lots of info in the forums, with TONS of opinions as well. I suggest you read this on the suspension forum first.

Good luck on your lift journey.

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/tacoma-lift-faq-guide-read-this.11282/unread

 

What makes you desire or believe you need a 3" lift? A 3" lift on these trucks can invite more costs and headaches than say a 2" lift will....

 

Best advice I can give you is buy the parts online yourself, because 1) you know exactly what you're getting (i.e. quality parts), and 2) you can get the parts cheaper than any shop or dealer is going to sell them at.

Then call half dozen shops around town and ask them their install prices for the labor. Go with a good one that fits your budget.

As for brands, quality, etc. Get some quality coilovers for a 3" lift; like Bilstein, Fox, Icon, King, etc. Also, you'll need some new Upper Control Arms since your going 3"... I'd suggest Total Chaos, as my personal recommendation.

Some good and reputable vendors to purchase lift parts from are:
http://www.headstrongoffroad.com/

 

Hmm how so? Is a 2" feasible? Mostly want for the aggressive look ..

 

Looks like I have some homework ahead of me

 

So no plans to off-road? Do you like to cut corners?

 

Not so much. Just dirt roads. Slight off roadig. Nothing major. I do not want to sink a fortune into it. I know it's pay to play lol. I mostly want the looks / bigger tires

 

You can read my write up linked in my signature below on the 6112/5160 combo. It is a very good performing option and will be an improvement over factory ride & performance both on and off road. Once you start going over 2" you need to look into aftermarket UCAs (Upper Control Arms) ... more parts and money. Also the more you lift the more stress you put on driveline components and geometry. Also look into the Needle Bearing (ECGS replacement) which is linked in my sig below.

 

You can't have both, either you get spacers, save money and bust a shock open in your 'Slight' off-roading trips or you spend some money and buy piece of mind when hit the dirt.

I would say look at Bilsteins kits, they are a middle of the road shock and I've heard good things about them.