Do I need new UCA's?

I'm about to replace my suspension with a complete OME kit. My taco is a 2003 V6 DC 4X4 TRD. My suspension appears to be original to the truck. As far as how the truck will be loaded, I'm getting a Snugtop shell and a pair of rock sliders/side steps. I will mostly carry camping gear for 2-4 people. I may do some light offroading but nothing too serious. The questions: Do I need new UCA's? One site lists these as an option with the kit and says they allow for better alignment. Also do I need an add a leaf kit? If so, would the single or multi add be better for my use? My understanding is the singles are better for weight while the multis offer a smoother ride. Which coils should I get (881, 882, 883) with the weight I expect to be carrying and what amount of lift might I expect for this set up? I've looked at the 1st gen OME thread but I'm still hesitant. Based on what I've read, I'm thinking the OME kit with 881's, no UCA's, and the multi leaf add a leaf. How far off am I?

 

You won't need UCA's with 881s. I had 5100s with 881s as my first setup and it was a great ride for the money. 881s only net about 1.5 - 2" of front lift depending on your truck configuration. Anything over 2" is where you really should be getting new UCAs. So if you decide to go with 882s or 883s then you will need them.

That said, I did end up gettin UCAs with my 881s eventually, not because I needed them at the time but because I knew I would eventually when I upgraded my suspension. But during the time I had them on with the stock UCAs, I had no issues. Alignment was always good

 

Will the 882's ride too stiff?

 

No, 881s and 882s are both 500# springs. Difference is that the 882s are a bit longer so you'll get more lift, about a half inch. The 883s are the same length as the 882s but are 590# springs, so those will ride more stiff without a heavier front end to compensate

 

What about the add a leaf? Is the multi leaf pack worth it?

 

My first setup had the 3 leaf AALs for the rear...if you leave the overload spring in it gives you a solid 3" rear lift. I really liked it, rode well. If you don't want that much lift then a single AAL is probably better, or do the 3 leaf one and remove the overload spring

 

I left the overload leaf in and installed the 1.5" single AAL from Wheelers. It lifted the rear about 2.25" which is more than I wanted. I don't have any permanent weight in the back (bumper, shell, etc..) and the ride is not bad, just "truck like". I have never done it but I feel like if I put a shell on or had other permanent weight back there it would be just right.

 

I did the same. The AALs actually helped with ride since the original springs were almost flat -- but still a little "truck like" over speed bumps.

Yesterday, I added 300 lbs of sand bags to the back. It really helps the ride and leveled out the rear while I wait for the springs to settle.

 

i got 881's on 5100's 2nd notch an 1/2 "
An 3/8" top spacer an got over 2" of lift ride is firm not stiff IMO an i need UCA'S got then coming next week .