how often to change shocks?

I probably didn't need to, but I just replaced mine at around 90k. I just bought some off of another member's '11 Sport, and put them on my '06 SR5. The ride seems nicer.

 

Just an alignment

 

Oh nice! Whats the max height increase you can go without needing anything but an alignment?

 

Well, that news makes me happy. I was thinking about just going up 1.75"

 

I have a hundred seventy thousand miles on mine and they running good. Thinking about installing a 2.5 for suspension on it soon

 

Are shocks easy to do yourself or is this something the dealer/mechanic should do? Not sure if special tools are needed, I've never done it and have not googled it yet.

 

Just a basic wrench/socket set should be fine. Rears are ridiculously easy (if top mounting nut isn't seized, then it becomes hell). Fronts require removing a bit more, Depending on your plan of attack. I

 

You replace them when you need them. And you will tell when you need them.

 

The front STRUTS will require a spring compressor. You can decide for yourself if thats a job you want to take on.
Unless you buy a whole new coilover already assembled.

The latter is advisable. Especially if its a longer coil for a lift.

 

I just changed mine out at 100K. Replaced the OEM TRD Bilsteins with 5100's.

I didn't think I needed them, but after the swap, I realized how worn my original shocks were.

I spend a lot of time on forest/logging roads and that gradually takes its toll over the years.

 

Installed 5100's here on my '14.....fronts set 3rd ring.....1.75" ride just fine

I wouldn't bother putting used shocks on....especially the fronts with labor cost

otherwise...stock Toyota or Bilsteins last a long time....just get beat up from gravel

 

So jelly of you Utah people!! I love spending time there. Eat some Blue Lemon and Waffle Love for me!!

 

I'm also wondering how long shocks last. My 2010 taco with 130,000 miles on it does not ride as smooth as my wife's brand new Subaru. I'm wondering if my shocks have slowly worn out over the years. I have the TRD Sport that came stock with Bilsteins. Might be time to replace them.

 

Neither. Its based on use.

Mine pretty much burned out in a month of serious hauling.

Heavy off road use will burn through then quickly as well.

 

our dry spell has ended.......rained for nearly the last 10 days.......

local mountains picked up 24"+ snow.......thats a 9K'........!

Skyline Drive I'm sure closed for the year.......rain/snow today right now

Hopefully its a heavy wet winter ! Good start for sure

 

Looks like rear shocks are pretty easy so I ordered some new Bilsteins for the rear for about $150.

The front appears to be significantly more expensive if you get the whole assembly with the coil.

 

fronts......my shop guy charged me 2 hrs IIRC......more work than rears for sure

that's why I would not install used on front

no coils included......just shocks.....best pricing is from Headstrong Off Road

all four under $350 shipped

 

You may get a growling noise caused by the needle bearing in the front if you lift at all. Some people dont have the problem but most eventually do. It can be fixed by replacing the needle bearing. I replaced mine with the ECGS bushing and it eliminates the issue permanently.

When I replaced the shocks on my truck they had no obvious signs of failure, but I had a major improvement in ride quality over the stock shocks when I installed the 5100's.

 

OK, I haven't even received the Billy's I ordered for the rear and I'm already eyeing up replacing the front shocks. I'd like to replace the springs and mounting plate also, so basically I'd be assembling my own coil/strut assembly. What are good replacement springs to pair with Bilstein 5100 front struts? I don't want any lift, factory height is fine on my TRD Sport.

 

Once you start down this rabbit hole it may never stop.
I dont know that answer to your question but maybe try reaching out to Marie at Headstrong Offroad. They are usually very good about helping to point you in the right direction. Some of the shops will even assemble the strut for you which to me makes the process much easier.
Or you could look at some Fox 2.0 coilovers or 6112 Billsteins.