Bilstein 5100 upgrade front

New to the Tacoma forum and have a question regarding my ‘09 Tacoma dbl cab 4x4 off road with 180k. I’ve ordered Bilstein 5100’s for the front and wondered if and what joints and/or bushings should be replaced while I’m there. I have not noticed any problems. I’m not wanting to do anything extreme or expensive.

 

Welcome.
I'm not sure about the U-joints but I don't think bushings are replaceable and if you're not understanding a squeaking cracking popping or anything weird and I don't see why they would need replacement.
@HeadStrong Off-Road
Might be able to help

 

Thanks for the reply. I’ve noticed some slack on the rear when I rotated my at3’s recently. I’ll definitely consider that. I was wondering if I should even bother with the tierod ends or ball joints or sway arm in the front. Nothing has been an issue so far, but...

 

You original owner?

 

Unless they’re worn out, no need. It’s not common for them to prematurely wear out. Just do a normal inspection, check for excessive play. If there is none, then no need to replace.

 

Thanks.

 

Bought it with 50k on it in 2011. Sees little off road, but I commute 1 hour to work. I’ve done well on its fluid changes though. Only problem I’ve had was the front wheel bearings being replaced.

 

Then I would think preventive maintenance would be it

 

I concur. Thanks. I plan on running this one another year then considering the new Pro series in DC 4x4.

 

You may find that your lower control arm (LCA) bushings are seized, making the installation of the shocks a challenge. If so, you will not be able to align the truck. Also, if lifting it, you will probably start hearing a pulsing vibration between 30 and 45 mph. That's the shitty needle bearing in your front differential.

 

Hmm... That's good to know and why I’ve posted such questions. Now I’m concerned. I wasn’t planning on lifting it more than .50 inches on the adjustable 5100’s. I guess a lot will depend on when I do this and if the LCA bushings are seized. The shocks do need replaced however. I assume if I was to buy knew LCA’s, problem solved?

 

0
0.85
1.75
2.5

Typical 5100 lift ranges for 2nd gens

 

Will 0 still give it lift?

 

No

Unless u get lift coils

 

K. Thanks.

 

I tried posting the the FAQ post but didn't get any replies and also don't want to start a brand new thread for just a quick question.

But:

I'm about to install some 5100s all around. I will be using stock coils for now, but I have a set of 3rd get Off-Road coils and a set of 2nd Gen Off-Road coils that I can install on them. Which ones should I choose? I have a 2nd gen Tacoma. What watch perch would I use? I'm assuming 3rd gen coils are longer so I wouldn't have to pre-load them as much?

I am currently running 3rd gen suspenison on my 2nd gen because it leveled out the truck and was free. Just wondering which ones to put on the bilsteins.

Thanks