Lopro bumper and winch. Which route to maintain ride height?

Hello TW friends.

I have searched this forum and found many answers to this question that contradict each other. I’m hoping to make an educated guess when I finish my bumper and winch install later this month with your help. I apologize now if this is a repeat. Please give me a link if this exact combo and question has been discussed.

I am installing a C4 lopro bumper (75 lbs) and a synthetic line winch that weighs 55lbs (Total added weight of 130 lbs) on my 2017 TRD Off Road.

I presently (before bumper install) have Bilstein 5100s set at minimum (no preload) and my truck is up about 1.5” over stock height on the stock Toyota coils. I am happy with the stance and ride quality.

My question (that I can find multiple answers to.....why I need help):

Am I better the preload the OEM Toyota springs using the 5100 spring perch to restore my ride height after adding the bumper, or am I better to replace the springs with old man emu etc? It seems the OEM Toyota springs are a heavier gauge (710lbs) than any offered aftermarket, but the aftermarket springs are longer. I know there will be a compromise, but what have others with this popular combo had best success with? I’m not looking for maximum lift, just to keep the truck where it’s at.

If anyone is running this setup with similar goals, please comment on what aftermarket springs worked best for you, or if you kept the stock springs.

Thank you.

 

I installed a Demello steel hoop bumper and warn vr10 with synth line. A set of 1/4” top plate spacers from headstrong with my stock Pro springs leveled the front back out with the rear. No noticeable change in ride quality on or off road.

 

Do you find you have more nose dive or is it not really that noticeable? Seems like a lot of weight to add up front, but maybe I’m overthinking this.

 

I have this exact bumper. Get Eibach 700# coils. I had the 2888 OME coils and they were horribly stiff/jarring...and sagged 1/2-3/4” after a year. Note the 2888 are a 590# coil. I opted for ext 14” 700# Eibach coils and have zero sag and the ride is great as long as your valving is what you want in your shocks. I’m only running 1.5” of lift in the front too

 

Thank you!