Help! Third gen Tacoma install trouble

Hey guys,

currently removing For 2.5 PE suspension and installing factory Bilsteins back onto truck. I started with the LR shock and currently have the FOX shock removed. I started to put in the factory shock but I noticed I needed to lower the truck waaaaaaay down. Is this ok to do so? This is my first time installing suspension on a truck so I want to make sure I’m covering my bases. Paranoid I might damage something like bending the axle or the leaf springs.

I will provide pictures below.

Also is there anything to watch out for when I install the factory suspension as far as compression etc. I don’t remember how they are supposed to rest. More pictures of that as well. Also the truck is not completely lowered enough to install factory shocks

 

Can you not push the shock up? I would not droop the axle too much, as you will start pulling on the brake / e-brake lines.

 

I see now! Shock was so stiff just had to give it a hard push. Thanks I’ll try that and see if it works

 

Any particular reason you are installing your stock stuff back on after only a month or so with your lift?

 

Selling the truck. If you’re interested in buying the FOXs let me know!

 

Update: shock is installed. Saw factory torque was 100 lbs for lower bolt and 20 lbs for upper. Can’t exactly get my micro torque wrench up there so I tightened down until secure. Anything look off?