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3rd Gen Suspension vs. Bilsteins 5100's + AAL?

Discussion in 'Suspension' started by WhiskeyTaco, May 8, 2017.

  1. May 8, 2017 at 6:54 PM
    #1
    WhiskeyTaco

    WhiskeyTaco [OP] Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Nov 13, 2016
    Member:
    #202291
    Messages:
    536
    Gender:
    Male
    First Name:
    Zach
    Denver, CO
    Vehicle:
    2011 White Tacoma Access Cab TRD Off Road
    So I'm contemplating on upgrading the suspension in my 2011 TRDOR Access Cab (95,000 miles). I bottom out on some speed bumps. My (tsb) leaf springs have a severe negative arch. Stock tires.

    These are always in the truck
    Sleeping platform (~25lbs)
    Shell + Steel Rack (~200lbs)
    Bike Rack (~40lbs)
    Kayak Racks (~10lbs)

    275lbs or around 375lbs with 2 bikes + 2 kayaks loaded up. Eventually, I'll add an OEM bed mat too.

    Goals:
    Smoother Ride
    0-1.5" of lift

    First Option ($500-600):
    3rd Gen Complete Suspension + Sumosprings = 1" lift

    Second Option ($800-830):
    Bilstein's 5100, OME 884, Wheelers/HS 3 leaf AAL = 1.5" lift

    I'm leaning towards the first option because it's cheaper and I really don't care about lift. But, I'm hesitant because I don't know if 3rd Gen leaf springs are weak like 2nd gen? I don't wheel my truck very much, if at all. Though I am commonly on camping/fishing trails.

    Or lastly, should I even be worried about my negative arch leaf springs? I've heard some people say that "they are supposed to be like that". If that's the case, when does the suspension normally wear out?

    Open to any suggestions,

    Thanks!
     
  2. May 8, 2017 at 7:44 PM
    #2
    angrysam

    angrysam Huh?

    Joined:
    Jan 5, 2011
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    Somebody's Shit List
    Vehicle:
    2.9 Gen- Not a cunt.
    Fleshlight and an old Farrah Fawcett poster.
    3rd gen springs aren't any better. I bottom out going over a specific dip in a road near me. At lower than posted speeds.

    The 5100s are always a good bet. Better than what comes stock on either generation IMO.
     
    WhiskeyTaco[OP] likes this.
  3. May 8, 2017 at 9:18 PM
    #3
    WhiskeyTaco

    WhiskeyTaco [OP] Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Nov 13, 2016
    Member:
    #202291
    Messages:
    536
    Gender:
    Male
    First Name:
    Zach
    Denver, CO
    Vehicle:
    2011 White Tacoma Access Cab TRD Off Road
    Yea the 5100 option does seem good, but I'm really most concerned with the leaf springs in the end. Would a new set of 3rd gen leaf springs + Sumosprings be better than (longevity/productivity) progressive AAL?
     
  4. May 9, 2017 at 6:37 AM
    #4
    angrysam

    angrysam Huh?

    Joined:
    Jan 5, 2011
    Member:
    #48754
    Messages:
    1,843
    Gender:
    Male
    First Name:
    Sam
    Somebody's Shit List
    Vehicle:
    2.9 Gen- Not a cunt.
    Fleshlight and an old Farrah Fawcett poster.
    3rd gen springs are just as shitty as 2nd gen. Add one of these to the rear. Don't forget axle shims.
     

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