3” Lifts

Hey all, I know this question has been asked multiple times but there is so much info and so much to read that a newb like me just gets in the weeds.

I just got my first truck (Tacoma TRD Sport 4x4) and am looking to do some modifications.

I’m thinking that a 3” lift would be good for me because it’s not drastic and I’m not going crazy off roads...yet. Plus, I like my rims and tires and don’t really want to replace them if I can help it.

That said, I’m also looking to get performance and not just aesthetic gains from the lift. I see price ranges from $300-$3000 and have minimal idea why the differences are there. Let’s start with reputable equipment and go from there. Any input is appreciated

 

Only up to $3000? haha...

It's good to see you already getting your brand new truck dirty!

Don't do spacer lifts, or body lifts (no performance gains - are crap).

It really depends on what you want to do with your rig, and of course, your budget. If you have a daily driver that will see some decent off road, a popular lift would be Bilstein 5100's and an add-a-leaf in the rear. The billys are (IMO) better than the stock TRD shocks, even though the TRDs are bilsteins, too. That will get you a max of 2.5" (I think) with adjustable front shocks. It's a cheap way to go, but gives decent performance/lift gains, but when you crank the front shocks up for more lift, it does tend to stiffen the suspension. So an alternative is to get OME coils, and let the springs do the lifting (better). Probably looking at ~$600 with OME coils and an add-a-leaf. IMO the "best" option if you're on a budget but don't want crap.

OME also offers a full suspension system with ALL new springs/shocks for about $1200. Another great option, and everything is paired to work together.

Another option in the $1200 range: From there, you start looking at higher end bilstein coilovers with nicer leaf kits like All-Pro, then on to King, Fox, ICON, etc...

Here are a few places to start drooling at: https://downsouthmotorsports.com/i-...-1.html#!year=2018||make=TOYOTA||model=TACOMA



For my best gen, after I had 5100's on for about 6 years, I went with a mid travel setup with Kings and total chaos upper A arms from DSM. I'm REALLY happy with the Kings, but you're looking at a grand+ just for the coilovers.

 

Ok.

Tires arguably make the most functional difference of any single change. And tires create 'real' lift in terms of ground clearance at the axle line. So for example going to 255 80 17 or 255 85 16 puts you in a 33" tire. And on the right OE wheels, no lift, cutting or rubbing. A few threads around on them.

What performance do you expect from a 3" lift with no significant off roading? And keep in mind there is a possiblity of degrading your hwy performance, at least in terms of MPG. If that's a consideration for you.

Why not use the truck as is until you find something it doesn't do well, then address that functional issue?

The right set of tires and driving skills will get you a lot of places in these trucks. They are very capable stock-ish.

 

Excellent points...

@JDActual, I know it sounds boring, and no product manufacturer is going to tell you this, but if this is your first forte into off roading, the best thing to do is just drive it off road. Find some dirt roads and engage that good ol 4wd button and have fun. Like Bill said, these trucks are perfectly capable off road 100% stock.

Some good all terrain tires is a close 2nd, though...

Don't worry about all that junk I told you about (at least not yet, lol).

 

The only real performance I expect is still a smooth ride. I’ve heard of some kits being stiff and effecting the ride in that aspect. That’s the type of stuff I’m trying to avoid. I ended up going with an Icon kit though so I’m looking forward to that getting here

 

I’ve taken the truck stock up to Uwharrie, it definitely did the job. I was slightly worried about some clearance but as I’m taking it easy and not going for record time, the truck did really well.

 

I went with Icon stage 3 kit haha

 

What's that going to run you installed?

 

I’m actually still looking around. I found one place that’ll cost about $650 but it’s an hour away. I’m checking out another place tomorrow. The dealership priced me at $1280 haha

 

I live In Fayetteville area

 

For a Icon Stage III?? Those prices can't be right can they?

 

Says it’s about 8hr install at $65/hr plus $90 for alignment at the end

 

Ehhh I'm talking about the overall price for lift plus install

http://iconvehicledynamics.com/shop...ma-0-275-suspension-system-stage3-billet.html

 

Oohhhhhh I was just talking install haha. I picked up the kit from rogue off-road for $2500 shipped

 

Ok thats better lol.

 

Happy with my bilstein 5100s with OME 888 coils.

 

I would be too, that’s badass. I need to figure out which tires won’t rub. According to charts and stuff, it says 285/70/17 should fit without rubbing but I feel like everyone with those tires rubs. I have 265/65/17 stock now

 

Depends on your wheel. My 17x8.5 0 offset wheels didn’t rub on my 285/70/17s. My 17x9 -38s do rub, a bit.

 

I have a stupid question...how would I know my rim size. I only know it’s 17” in rim

 

Awesome truck!