Help! Lift for towing AND offroading? Maybe

Aside from all this

General springs? Like "general" or is that a brand?

 

BTW guys I'm really glad I joined this forum and really grateful all the advice I'm getting, thanks and keep it coming!!

 

https://www.generalspringkc.com/leaf-springs/toyota/tacoma/2005-2011-toyota-tacoma-leaf-springs/

 

They provided a great lift in the rear. I thought they were going to settle but never did. I ended up removing them and putting them in my garage. I have since bought some 2015 leafs which I hate. I'm going to throw the general springs back in but Im currently in AL for school so it's going to wait until I get a chance to drive back to TN to get them to put back in. They remind me of the TSB leaf springs but better

 

So you honestly think these will help my towing dilemma at the same time provide a nice ride with some aesthetic lift? How much lift did you get with them?

 

Yes. That is my CMC, they cut off a portion of the frame and weld on a fill piece to block it off and make it look nice. Before the CMC, the tire would rub exactly where the frame was cut out. Obviously that is no bueno as your tires will pay the price for that.

The coil springs and leafs provide the lift of the front and rear, respectively. The 5100s are a longer shock and provide dampening performance for the taller suspension. You can technically use them on stock springs but the ride height will remain the same. You will need a taller spring if you want height.

Granted nitrogen shocks might provide something similar to a “lift”, it’s not the goal of a shock. This is because they are designed to operate at a more extended range. By using them on stock springs, they are essentially “preloaded” in a shorter position and will want to push up from their compressed height. The shocks goal is to control the rebound from the spring, which is what the truck rides on. Taller spring = taller ride height.

 

Ok ok so with that information it makes me think I'm missing something or maybe not fully understanding. Your saying the ride height will be the same with 5100s although they are adjustable?

 

you’re right. The front can be set with the snap rings. I was referencing the rear leaf springs. Sorry.

 

Oh good, for a second I thought I might be getting in over my head... I'm obviously trying to convince myself how I can save some money but sometimes that may not work, especially for me.

Do you think I could get away with 5100s all around with stock coils and the full leaf packs, I could upgrade coils later on if I don't like the ride and control arms if I feel I need em. Could possibly keep my budget under 1000.

Also just trying to understand the difference in the bilstein and nitro, what would be a better ride?

 

Check out icon leaf packs, they come with 3 options for load, so you can fine tune what works best for you