1st Gen Rear Suspension

I have a 2001 Single Cab 4x4. Several years ago I tossed some Chevy leafs into the stock Tacoma spring packs and ditched the overload springs. I relocated the shocks with a DOM upper mount between the frame rails and used some cheap Pro Comp 3000s on new lower shock mounts. No blocks. I got about 3" of lift out back that way, and have 5100's on stock coils up front so it clears the 285s good.

Anyway, I thought I was going to be upgrading everything within a year of doing that stuff, but that didnt happen. The modifications stopped, I never got a chance to go wheeling again, and the truck has basically just been a daily driver that only gets to play at the ranch a handful of times per year.

The rear suspension has been harsh since day one. Like kidney shattering harsh. I know this spring/shock is combo is garbage, but back then I couldn't afford much. A couple of years ago I unbolted the shocks to see how it felt and the ride softened a little, but obviously very bouncy. Then I took the chevy leafs out and the ride still sucks, but rubbed the tires, so I put them back in and I've just lived with it.

Now, with a V8 engine sitting in the bed, this thing rides perfect. It absorbs the bumps and potholes great, and is actually comfortable. I'd like to duplicate how it rides with weight in the bed, but without the weight. The 3RZ doesn't like extra weight and my mileage suffers badly.

Any recommendations for a rear spring/shock setup? Again, this is a single cab, so its lighter and shorter than Access/Double Cabs, which makes it stiff by nature/geometry. It doesn't ever pull a trailer, and only occaisionally hauls a motor or motorcycle in the bed so I'm not worried about sagging when loaded. I just want a good smooth comfortable ride and not have to brace for every bump in the road.

I was thinking of ditching the Chevy leafs, throwing some lift shackles to compensate, and some better valved shocks or something adjustable, but I'm all ears, or eyes, whatever.

 

I would be interested on input to your question as well. Like you I ‘rebuilt’ my packs with some Chevy leafs, paired with some Bilstiens 5125 10” and the ride is harsh, except for when I’m carrying a trailer loaded with an atv. I don’t know if it’s more of the shock causing such a harsh ride, the springs, or a combination.

The only viable off the shelf option for springs on first gens to gain lift and maintain carrying capacity (That you said you’re not that concerned about) seems to be the Dakars. That has been what I’ve been looking at doing since I tow on the regular. I believe Deaver has a off the shelf pack that offers 1.25” lift? But from my understanding will not handle weight very well. AllPro also offers two different leaf packs dependent upon your set up that would be worth considering. From the way it sounds, their standard pack might be more of what you’re looking for. As for shock choice, I’m still debating that myself.

 

If close to stock and soft ride is what you want I'd go OME springs and some fox smooth bodies.

This is my second 63" pack with one leaf from my old OME pack from the rear.