Springs or Shocks?

I use a '97 6cy Tacoma mostly for hauling materials for projects around the house. A previous owner put a 2" body lift on it. With 1/2 yard of soil in the bed (about 1000lbs), the backend sags terribly. The first time I hauled soil it had a full cubic yard of soil, and I was very concerned about driving. I'm sure the shocks are spent. I understand shocks don't carry the load. Do I need new springs to support the load.

 

Depends on how often and how far you go.

But yes, springs are the answer. However, shocks control spring oscillation, so likely they are needed too.

 

Springs support the Load/shocks control the movement of the springs by absorbing the impact of bumps and sudden braking

 

Yes, front and rear springs are needed. Shocks control the speed of the springs' compression and rebounding.

 

1000 pounds of payload is a lot for a Tacoma. It’s normal for the leaf springs to compress. Why does that worry you?

In any case, yes you can increase the ride height with that load by augmenting the leaf springs. The shocks will not change the ride height, but they might help the truck handle the load better while driving down the road over bumps and dips.

 

Firestone air bags. Air up as needed when hauling stuff. FYI leaf spring will help carry load( they do not increase load capacity) the strength of the axles is what is your limiting factor.