Bilstein 5100 install question

While I am waiting for my bilsteins to arrive I want to research installation techniques you all have done. I have seen many videos of others installing these without use of spring compressor but they had to swing lower control arm to vertical position requiring loosening of LCA bolts. Since I have spring compressor available, would I be able to remove strut assembly together without loosening LCA bolts so as not to alter alignment, I am only going for the 1" lift and did not want to realign. Also since I have the front 1 1/2" lower than rear should I raise the front 1" or 2", my truck has 5500 miles on it. If I raise 2" and rear settles then the front will be higher if I raise 1" and rear settles then it will be perfect. I know I am overthinking but I don't want to do it again as adjusting will be doing it all over again. Thanks in advance

 

bump

 

I wish I could provide an answer, but I cant. I'm sure that someone will chime in soon and provide you with some direction. Good luck with your install

 

Any suspension modification will require an alignment.

I would say save yourself the hassle of the spring compressor and do the method without the compressor ( I've done both and can say the compressor sucks compared to using the weight of the truck)

 

Yeah, @trdNick nailed it. You'll need an alignment after any change in ride height. I've also done it both ways and the spring compressor method blows unless you have access to a professional hydraulic one. The no-spring compressor method is the way to go for the regular Joe doing this in his garage.

 

Put it at .85

I did that and got 1.5" of lift. With a spring compressor it's an easy fix it you aren't happy with it there. Our 2.7 prerunners don't have much weight up front and can get more lift than you anticipate.


Also, get an alignment.

 

I'll add to the no spring compressor method club. I've done it twice now with no issues. Make sure you have a torque wrench for putting it back together.

 

No spring compressor is easier, and safer than most of those spring compressors. Either way a new alignment will be needed.

 

Thanks for all the help! What does put it @ .85 will that be something I see on the new shocks?

 

Yes and no. There are no numbers on the shock body, only 4 grooves, the lowest of these being stock height i.e. 0" of lift. The next 3 in order will get you (approx.) .85" of lift, 1.75" of lift, and 2.5" of lift. I say approximately because there are some variables as in sport coils, OR coils, 4cyl vs 6cyl engine weight.