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98 Taco Suspension work

Discussion in '1st Gen. Tacomas (1995-2004)' started by candrews86, Dec 4, 2023.

  1. Dec 4, 2023 at 1:53 PM
    #1
    candrews86

    candrews86 [OP] Active Member

    Joined:
    Nov 26, 2022
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    The Woodlands, TX
    Vehicle:
    1998 Tacoma SR5 4x4
    Hey guys, It's way past time to replace the shocks on my 200k mile Tacoma. Any recommendations? I'll need new coilovers as well and I'll just get a local shop to compress the coils for me to put on the struts. This is just a commuter truck. I just want something reliable, not going rock crawling or anything with it. I've got OEM Lower Ball Joints that I am going to replace while I'm in there. Everything is original on the truck as far as the suspension. I don't have any slop in the steering or uneven tire wear, but what are some items you would replace. It looks like most of the rubber in some of the bushings are all dry rotted so I'm trying to make a list of things that need some attention.
    Appreciate the help!
     
  2. Dec 4, 2023 at 2:21 PM
    #2
    ControlCar

    ControlCar My Moto: Help & Learn…period.

    Joined:
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    Steven
    Sugar Land TX
    Vehicle:
    1996 Taco 2.4L 2wd Automatic
    Clock Volt meter/LSPV Delete/Hyundai 16’s/FP gauge/after 9months of wrenching ZERO oil leaks
    you can purchase a 'loaded' strut assembly now a days....usually AM....much easier to install
    no need to compress springs

    awesome job on ball joints
    might as well check outer tie rods too (jack up on front corner...place hands at 9 o'clock and 3 o'clock and shake tire.....if play otr ties needed)
    coil over strut and tie rods would require alignment (adjustable mount points/bolts)
    might as well pay for only one alignment .
    GL
    let everyone how it goes!
     
    candrews86[OP] likes this.
  3. Dec 4, 2023 at 9:33 PM
    #3
    rocknbil

    rocknbil Well-Known Member

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    Bill
    Vehicle:
    2003 Taco Ext Cab DLX TRD 4WD MT 3.4L
    I bought these for my '03, best package price you'll find anywhere. If you plan on replacing coils, you'll also need to replace the top hats, bushings, hardware . . . . save yourself the time and effort and buy an assembled set. Easiest job you'll do on these old trucks. These coilovers are assembled by suspension lifts and they ship from warehouses across the country, my order arrived in like 4 days instead of a week or two. The Moog 81104 springs are as close to stock as you can get, as well as the Bilstein 4600's.

    I initially gained almost an inch in ride height, settled in to an extra half inch. Whatever you do, don't let anyone sell you anything with Quick or Struts in the name, they're not struts, they're coilovers. :p
     
    Last edited: Dec 4, 2023
  4. Dec 5, 2023 at 9:57 AM
    #4
    Red_03Taco

    Red_03Taco Well-Known Member

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    Jerad
    Vehicle:
    2003 Tacoma Xtra Cab 4WD
    You may want to consider replacing your upper ball joints as well.

    And I second the Bilstein 4600s recommended by @rocknbil.
     
    candrews86[OP] likes this.

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