shorter/softer springs for 99 Prerunner?

I just bought a 99 Prerunner, 2.7L, auto, RWD and I think I might have made a mistake. My past trucks have been regular RWDs- good ride, low bed for loading dirt bikes easy. The Prerunner seems to be the worst of both worlds- all the problems of tall stiff suspension without the capability of 4WD.

So I was wondering there are softer and or lower springs available (preferably cheap). I think stock RWD springs might be Too low with the big wheels (mine has 16" 6 lug wheels, RWD has 14" 5 lug), but if someone has done it I'd like to see how it turned out.

THANKS!!

 

That's funny my truck came with soft leaf springs, being that they were original.
Making them stiffer and taller was one of my first mods.
Anyways if you want softer springs throw some weight in the back and run around like that for a bit. Also have you checked if your truck was lifted by the previous owner? Blocks would make for a stiff ride.
Also your truck is regular rwd until you lock your rear;you'd be surprised how capable the prerunner is offroadwith a good driver .

 

It's not modified at all.

I did add some sandbags. While that does not change the spring rate at all, it does make it ride a bit better. I just hate the idea carrying around a bunch of weight for no reason.

Correct me if I'm wrong, but I think the 4 banger (which mine is) does not have the locking diff. Is the locker a limited slip or something you have to switch over manually? I have found nothing indicating a locker switch. Where should it be?
Thanks

 

locker switch would be on the left side of the steering wheel, locker is on TRD package trucks only

 

are your rear shocks blown out? mine rode like shit when i got it and they were blown.

 

'99 4 banger auto Pre, even with TRD package, is open diff only. No limited slip, no locker. While I don't mind my stiff springs and rough ride, I'm none too happy when I get stuck on a little ice...

 

Good info.

 

My 1999 Pre Runner ride is terrible. My truck has some extra weight in back and a fiberglass topper on it. For example, it feels like the rear bottoms out easily and rebounds harshly. Are there any good aftermarket shocks and springs that will smooth things out?

 

I've answered my own question.

The front springs off a 2WD 4 cyl 4runner are softer. I've installed those and they help noticably. And mine is extended cab. The rear springs are off a non-extended cab 4cyl 4WD (or prerunner) are also softer than mine. I have a used set but have not yet installed them.