5100 install without using coil spring compressor

I've done the small (2"-3") lifts on the various Tacoma and 4Runner I've had over the last 20+ years.

Before the summer, I bought another Tacoma. This time, it's a stock 2009 TRD Sport 4x4 from the original owner. Aside from the crappy paint on the hood and roof, it was in excellent condition.

Well, that was the peak of the pandemic, and I ended working from home this whole time with very little miles since then. Well, our company just announced we'll be going back to the office in mid-Oct, so I decided to start adding some upgrades and start enjoying it more.

I've already bought the 5100 for the front, and add-a-leaf for the rear shortly after I bought the truck. As I'm in TX, I waited until today to finally install the front due to the hot summer heat. Even though I've done this multiple times, I thought I would check out some youtube for some tips. Anyway, saw 2 videos where they were bypassing the coil spring compressor and using the weight of the truck to change out the strut. Sounds risky, but then again, I hated those DIY spring compressor I borrow from local auto store. Always afraid that something is going to snap.

Anyway, thought I give it a try. I have to say, it was the easiest way and I felt much safer than using the cheap spring compressor (I know, the safer way is to have it professionally changed out at a shop using their hydraulic wall mounted unit). Anyway, didn't know if others have tried it as I just wanted to share it as it was news to me.

Hardest part was to install the 2 bolts that's under the lower control arm. They have to align and it took me 3 hours on the driver side, and only 20 min to complete on the passenger side. Main thing is to be patient and persistent.

I know it needs an alignment soon, but just driving around, the 5100 definitely felt firmer. Hope it settles down over time.

 

Did it the same way as you when I did the shocks on my
05 With a spacer lift
Watched the YouTube vid- worked great

 

Same , did it with a floor jack, in fact a few times adjusting the ring for height. It was hairy at first but after the first time it was easy , actually I thought it was very safe.

 

Yes, this is the best method for DIYers.

I've used this method a couple of times. Unfortunately, the last time I went to put OME 886 springs on and in the process of jacking up the LCA I realized my truck frame was two inches above my jack. The spring is so stiff that I was jacking up my truck instead of compressing the spring.

I sat it back down and had a local shop install them on my shocks for $30.

 

I had that problem with the 3rd gen springs on my truck. I loaded up the hood with all 4 tires and it gave me enough weight to do it.