Removing a Body Lift

I've wanted to remove the body lift from my 1st gen Tacoma for some time now. Is this a simple process than can be done in a driveway by an old novice mechanic. Does it require a truck lift to hold the cab as it's lowered to original height. Will it involve pulling up the carpet in the interior to install new bolts. Is it easily done by real mechanics during a shock and suspension replacement.

 

I've only installed a body lift and that was on a Ford Ranger so I will help you the best I can.

Yes, it can be done in the driveway if you have basic tools and atleast a floor jack to lift the cab and bed as you remove the spacers.

No, a lift is not required. A floor jack is all you need to lift just enough to remove the spacers

Yes, carpet will need to be pulled back to access some of the bolts.

"Easily done by real mechanics..."? Sure, if they are willing to do it and your willing to pay thier overinflated price.

*** here's the thing though, body lifts sometimes can involve cutting or moding some of the stock components on the truck to make way for clearance issues. I would take a hard look at the fan shroud, bumpers, and the steering linkage as these are the parts that are usually "modified" when installing a body lift. These "modifications" can cause issues once the body is returned to its stock height, most people when installing a body lift have no intention of ever removing it so stuff is cut and beat on during the installation with no regard for ever returning the truck to stock height.

 

Thanks. I found a YouTube video that shows how it's done. Downsizing The First Gen Tacoma Body Lift! REMOVING 3 INCH BODY LIFT KIT!
I'll have to inspect mine to see what's been altered before deciding whether to try it myself.