best replacement for worn-out suspension

Hey all, new here...been doing lots of reading but wanted to clear a few things up. Posted over in 5 lug too, but most folks there seem to have 2nd gens.

I've got a 2000 v6 3.4L rwd 5 lug. As far as I can tell its base trim, but one VIN lookup said its DLX. It's got 138k, and the suspension is definitely getting old. It's my daily driver, but I do load it for road trips, and travel some rough-ish dirt roads to trailheads/crags. I like the idea of a small lift (1 or 2") eventually, but it's not really in the budget now.

I'm wanting to replace the shocks and coil springs, and was looking at the monroe quick strut because it's easy and cheap. I know it's lower quality, but I figure I can swap it out in a couple years when I have the money.

BUT-does anyone know if they will fit on a 1st gen 5 lug? Some dealers say it will, some say it won't, I'd rather know before I buy and try to install. If not, it seems like bilstein 4600's are my best bet if I'm not lifting, (from what I have read 5100's don't fit on 5 lugs, though that may only be 2nd gen). Then what about recommendations or advice for new coil springs?

As for the rear, are there any shocks I could put in now, that will fit stock height but could potentially accommodate a small lift in the future? I also suspect I should be saving up to replace the leaf springs, but I'm also not too familiar with how they sit new.

Thanks!

 

Welcome
Sorry I can’t offer any assistance.

 

@BartMaster1234

 

I have almost the same truck as you, except it's a 1998 and it has 442,000 miles. I actually bought it last week - not to confuse it for my daily driver 1998 PreRunner 4x4.

I would look into Bilstein 4000 series, not totally sure if they would fit but maybe can can find more info online.

 

I'd imagine anything would be an upgrade if it hasn't been changed before! I'm sure they Monroe shocks would do you well. Head down to your local parts houses and get some prices at each and the brands they carry and then look around online for reviews. It's an easy swap and will be well worth it!

 

Downsouthmotorsports has billstiens for the 1st gen 5 lug. They are made for a ford or chevy but with a little grinding they work. Fabtech n Rough Country make shocks that are decent.

For coil springs, moog makes a few pairs. Will level the front with the back n ride quality is good. If you are going to change coils I suggest you change ball joints n tie rods since those all will be disconnected

 

https://downsouthmotorsports.com/i-...07.html#!year=1997||make=TOYOTA||model=TACOMA

 

I'm wondering what you need to grind to get these to fit. Or will 4600s work, I have a 1.5" lift only gave about .75-1" lift.