Shocks

Ok, so I posted for some advice and got 0 responses (despite there being 38 views). Maybe I was too specific. So, will there be any responses for.... ADS vs. Fox vs. Dobinsons vs. Icons for a 2.5-3.0 lift (mostly for cosmetic effect) ? 2019 Taco with 300 miles on it.

I would prefer (as anyone) 0 maintenance, and a lasting value beyond 40K miles with probably very little (5%) offroading.

 

That’s a hard question because it all depends on your use. I’ve had OME and hated them due to being too stiff with only 590# coils (designed for overlanders) and topping out even with UCAs. I have ADS now with 700# coils (front lo-pro bumper and winch) and don’t plan on getting them serviced for at least 60k miles because I just run trails and forest roads (not rock crawling but once a year). I’ve called ADS about this concern and the guys there have told me most people service between 30-60k miles. They even told me about a guy who serviced at 90k and they were surprised how good the condition of the components still were. The shocks have 15k miles on them now and feel like new still

Pretty much any shock will last 40k, but if you do hardcore abuse then it may (likely) be sooner. As far as opinions go. Dobinsons is a budget shock that many people like. Next is Fox 2.0’s which are a level up from Dobinsons, Icons have tons of mixed reviews, but many think their customer service sucks bad. ADS and King are top end shocks that will take anything you throw at them, but you pay $$$ for them. One thing to note with Fox is that if you want to get into their quality shocks you will need to spend $$$ for the 2.5 DSC’s which are comparable to Kings/ADS.

As far as lift goes. 2” on the new Tacoma’s or less is ideal no matter what shock you run to avoid sooner component and CV damage. I tune 1.5” lift up front and a 2” lift in rear with the ADS and the ride is great on-road. Superb offroad.

Hope this helps

 

I would say those are overkill for no offroading. You would probably be fine with a leveling kit for 300$ and none the worse. I had a leveling kit and no regrets.

I would say Toytec, or Old man emu, is better suited for you.

Fox, Icon, King, bypass shocks all have fairly good reputations, and are usually serviceable if they leak. I'm partial to Icon for Tacoma.

 

What if I am being quoted basically the same price - $3200 (Bilstein) vs $3500 (Icon) ? Any thoughts? Also, I already have brand new in the box Fox 2.0 coil overs and shocks. Should I just go with those and an AAL and be happy with 2" lift? My problem with that, is it really going to be 2"?? Or is it the time honored once it's on, you are SOL, $1000 to remove it now, lol

 

If you're being quoted for the same price between Bilstein and fox, they better be quoting you for some Bilstein 8112s and 8110s. That's a scam if that's the price for 5100s. If that's the case it'll e cheaper for you to order the 5100s and then pay for to fly me up from Hawaii t install the for free lol

 

Sorry, I idiotically was remiss in not mentioning the specific shocks - quoted Bilsteins ($3200) - 6112/5160, AAL with SPC uca. Icon (stage 1) - AAL with SPC uca ($3500). OR, just install the Fox 2.0's I already have brand new and be done with it all (would I also need an AAL?)

 

If you already have the 2.0s I would try those. I think you get about 2" up front when maxed out and yes I'm sure if you're going to try to achieve 2" up front you need either an AAL or 1" block in the rear. Don't discount a 1" block so fast, either. Super cheap to install/purchase. Doesn't change quality of ride. Minimal if any gained axle wrap. Eliminates need for shims as long as you get a tapered block

 

For what you're looking for you need:
https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads...aflex-new-suspension-options-for-2016.531906/

 

Everyone around here seems to HATE blocks... lol. I mean, technically money is not the object, I will spend what needs to be spent. But, I would rather spend it on a new gun.... or maybe my kids... ha

 

Everyone hates blocks because they are told to hate blocks. A 1" block is no big deal

 

Axle wrap isn't a problem with 1" blocks. You'd have to be in 4LO and flexing to be an issue.

 

Agreed

 

I’m running 6112/5160 at the 5th perch and this is the results

Measurements taken from center of hub to bottom of the fender.


Stock Measurements
20.6 FL
22 RL
21 FR
22.5 RR

Two days post lift
22.75 FL
23.25 RL
22.75 FR
23.25 RR

One month post lift
22.25 FL
23.00 RL
22.25 FR
23.00 RR

 

Just for looks? Blocks in the rear and spacers in the front and spend the $2500 you saved on something you’ll actually use.