How to: Front shock/spring removal

I think I'm going to try this method...

Seems safe...

And it's Sunday and I need to get this done today!

 

Im switching shocks in the next couple weeks. I might try that method as well. Let me know how it goes for you. I just dont like the loosening of the cam bolts part.

 

Was nice and easy, no problem at all.

 

@619Tacoma, I was wondering if you go the UCA removal route instead of the lower assembly, do you still need a wheel alignment? I'm getting ready to install a set of 5100's, with eibach springs set at 0, I just installed a toytec 1 1/2" AAL. BTW this install is on a 2012 Tacoma Dbl Cab 4X4 that bottoms out on me with 4 adults going over small to medium bumps on pavement. It does have the 4 leaf rear until I did the AAL, next comes the front which I've been told that the best setting considering the other installs would be to set the front 5100's at 0. Any and all help will be appreciated. Thanks to the forum.

 

Monster1,

Would you please take pics of the installation and post it? Thanks.

 

you know I was wondering the same thing, cause I was thinking of going the UCA route also, and also wanted to know if a wheel alignment is required if you go the UCA route. Maybe someone on the forum can answer that. I did the AAL , now I hope I have the time to do the front this coming week. About the pics, I have no experience posting posting pics whatsoever, but I'll try my best to learn and when I'm completely done, I'll try my darnest to post them.

 

Chris wheres the pics from the OP?

 

Technically any time you remove, replace or adjust any suspension part you should get a re-alignment. That's why I added that part to the end of the video.

That being said, I have carefully marked my cams and removed and adjusted my coil overs several times without getting an alignment. Maybe I have decreased the life of my tires quite a bit, maybe not, but after each adjustment my truck still drove straight and did not pull to one side. So skip the alignment at your own risk...

 

I did the install per Toyota's instructions, my truck was still in spec when I had taken it in for a realignment.

 

what site should i order my 5100's from?? downsouth has free shipping but toytech has the discount from what i have heard and wheelers is nicely priced as well.. i am looking to purchase tonight..

 

Ditto, pics are long gone and both links are dead ends. Anyone got pics?

 

Photos were deleted.
This link should be gtg.
http://www.customtacos.com/tech/files/05FSM/repair.html

 

@GregoryK, what method did you use specifically to do the job of doing the front 5100's and eibach coilovers. At what setting did you set the Bilsteins? I have already installed the 1 1/2" toytec AAL and am thinking of setting the fronts at .85, just hoping I like the stance after I'm done. I like your post^, any answer would be appreciated. Thanks.

 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vkVLBOnAifc

Your the man

 

The install where you drop the sway bar and down links andleave the lca and uca intact.
I think I set mine at one notch up from zero. This removed rake I had after installing a set of super springs to deal with how weak toyotas leaf springs are. On a cell phone so replies short.

 

I swung the LCA down. just loosen the cam bolts a little and the cams wont move. The alignment is going to be way out of whack after the lift anyway. Put the clip at the .85 setting since you lifted the rear. I have about 2" lift in the rear (via TSB + Deaver aal's) so I still have a little rake but I like the way it sits now. Besides I carry stuff in the bed all the time. It's sooo much better now that I can carry a load in the bed and not bottom out all the time and I removed the overload spring. Curious to see if you get the dreaded front diff vibration as soon as you lift the front. Also the take off shutter from the rear? Neither are a big deal though. Fun stuff! Here's how it sits now.

 

Thanks Chris for starting this thread and to all the others that contributed!
It helped me out a lot this past weekend!

 

I like the stance, I wouldn't mind getting that stance, with what I have so far would I get a similar stance with mine? 1 1/2" AAL, 5100's all around with the fronts set at .85 with toytec/eibachs. Thanks

 

Yes, you will probably get a stance very similar to that pic..I have that same set up, 5100's @ .85 w/620 Eibachs and 1 1/2" AAL, and its just about level, to the eye. Maybe 1/2" or so higher in the rear when you measure it.

 

Yes it should be very similiar, if anything just slightly lower in the rear which should be perfect. Post pics when your done.