2017 TRD Off-Road 4WD: Decided on 6112 & 5160 w/ AAL, a few questions

I've been reading a lot, but posting very little. After reading, and reading.... and reading. I've decided to go with Bilstein 6112's (circlip #4/#5 setting) and 5160's w/ Icon 1.5" AAL for the rear lift. My goal is to level out the vehicle, I consistently have ~200 lbs. in the rear with a rack/Tepui RTT. Occasionally I'll have 375-450 lbs. for extended camping week-ends. From what I've read, this would appear to accomplish the goal to allow me to access more dispersed area's camping while not sacrificing on-road performance too much.

My questions would be:

1) I'm keeping the lift at 1.5-2", it does not appear UCA's are necessary. Should I look into adding UCA's and will it affect on-road performance if I invested in them? Is it really worth the extra $500-$700 for them?

2) What would be the tire size recommended to fit this lift? I'm looking at going with KO2's but am completely open to other suggestions. I've been looking at the 265/75R16's and the 275/70R16's, I like the size of the 265/75's but am not sure I'd like the higher load rating/weight. I've read these tires are firm as is and this vehicle largely is used as a daily driver. Would anyone have any other suggestions for a softer all-terrain tire that will excel in most driving conditions?

3) What else would you recommend that I'm missing? I've read that replacing the driver side CV Axle Needle Bearing is a necessity and fairly inexpensive while you have everything torn apart. Is there anything else major that I'm missing?

Appreciate your help, I'll post before and after's on the build once it's completed!

 

1). Do you plan to actually off-road? Then yes absolutely IMO. Others will say no. I like above average alignment and extra caster for a reason (helps Correct neg caster from adjusting LCA cams, pushing wheel away from firewall).

2). I’m confused. “Fit” your lift?

3). Would definitely grab the ECGS bushing. Again, some will say not needed, but I rather pay $50 for a bushing than have the needle bearing grenade my diff when I least expect it.


I’ll save you some trouble - you’re going to have 10 different answers for your questions lol, it’s all subjective depending on what your intended use is. You’d know that if you “read and read.”

good luck!

 

Appreciate the reply, I'm on the newer side to Tacoma lift's so I apologize if my verbiage isn't the normal. My off-roading will consist of overlanding primarily and also some off roading trails for camping. I do a lot of dispersed camping in the summertime here in Colorado. I don't go off-roading for fun, but more as a way to get from point A to point B for dispersed camping.

In terms of fit, I'd love to have a 32" tire with a lower load rating so it doesn't effect too much on road performance. I'd like something to fit where I don't need to add spacers or other items to keep it from rubbing, does that make sense? Also, as a follow up question if I currently have a 16" rim (stock) but want to go with some after market beaded rims, can I go with a 17" without making any adjustments?

 

I don’t “overland” so I can’t answer.


In terms of “fitting” tires, a lift doesn’t help you clear tires unless you stay on flat pavement. As soon as you flex the suspension off-road (if your tires are too big), you’ll rub. With that being said, you’ll have very minor trimming to do regardless with a 32” tire.

there’s lots of threads on here discussing the above.