Question on Icon

I want to do the Stage one setup on my 2004 Tacoma Extd cab, with the add a leaf in the rear. What else do I need to do while i'm installing the lift? Break Lines? Spacers for the drive shaft? New to truck suspension, not new to wrenching!

 

Brake line is not really needed unless you fully max your suspension. Besides its an easy install if after you install the AAL and find out you needed extended brake lines and for $40 its not expensive to just add. Nothing else is necessary but I suggest rear shocks. If you live in a wet snowy harsh part of town the rear main eye and other bolts might seize up so it's good to have new hardware like main eye bolt, ubolt and bushings.

 

So I don't need to worry about shimmiing the axel? I have noticed quite a lot of people do it while doing a lift, just wondering if its necessary or just for good measure?

 

I have the Icon 3 leaf add a leaf with no overload and did not need my carrier bearing shim or brake lines.

 

That's a great setup man! Depending on the condition of your stock leafs, the 3 leaf will shorten it's life span as it's made to run smoother and flex more! My 08 leafs lasted a year with no overload before they sagged and started bottoming out on speed bumps. The OL left in will help it NOT bend negative but also won't flex as smooth!

 

So whats the opinion on the add a leaf? worth it? or not so much?

 

What's your use? Flexing or hauling?

IMO the stock leafs suck even with a "good" aal.....the performance just isn't there and it wont last!

Replace them with a new pack to match the plushness of the front. All Pro standards and Deavers are great for flex and a smooth ride while All Pro expos and Dakars are good for heavy load usage. (IMO AP is the way to go.....you can easily look up why).

 

You will easily get 2 years out of brand new TSB leaves and the Icon 3 leaf add a leaf with average use. That is certainly a fine investment for $150. In fact you will get more use per dollar than a new pack that will cost 3-4x the price and not last 6-8 years.

Also the 3 leaf add a leaf does not shorten the life of the main leaves, it adds resistance to the leaves, strengthening them. Removal of the overload and heavy use wears iut the springs... but you springs with the add a leaf and no overload will last longer than stock springs and no overload or add a leaf. Just wanted to clarify.

 

Typically your right but he has an 04 and not new tsb leafs........in my experience I killed a set of non tsb leafs on an 08 with moderate use. Others could have a diff experience and I respect that.

Switched to a new stock pack and reused the 3 leaf aal and still didn't get the performance I was looking for. AP standards seem pretty spot on now!