Spindle Sanity Check

So, I'm a PreRunner nerd. Let's get that out of the way. We cool?

Having a 2WD, I have the option of spindles up front. I should preamble that I HATE huge trucks that are big just to be big and are past the point of utility. However, gaining 3.5" at the price point of spindles while maintaining factory up-front geometry seems almost too good to be true...

My sanity check is as follows:

1) What are the downsides to spindles? I must be missing something here. They're relatively cheap, you can maintain front suspension components, and keeps same geometry.

2) In the rear, if I go w/ some 1.5" Deaver Packs, is that going to level me out? I took a look at the 2.75" DAKARs - would that be too high? I like a good rake to my truck, so would either want a rake or be level - absolutely not front-end high.

3) I absolutely am for doing things right the first time around. What other components might I replace while I'm 'poking around' in there replacing parts? Mind you, it's a '15 with 4k on the clock, so nothing is necessarily 'worn' yet. However, I want this lift to last, so I'd rather do it right the first time.


Make a few PreRunner jokes first. Get it out of the way. THEN any input is appreciated.

 

I have no answer to your question but I'm bumping this as a favor from one one PreRunner bro to another

 

No downside really. Besides still being 2wd. I have maxtracs that are going on next week, which came with the extended break lines. As for being level. Best bet to stay level or have a little bit of rake are all-pro expos. They give 4" lift.

 

@TacoTaco15

I have a PreRunner with a spindle lift up front. It's what I suggest to all 2wd PreRunner owners who are looking for a lift. I removed my 885x/5100 combo and went with the lift spindles/stock springs with the 5100s. Should have done that from the very beginning.

1a. One downside is the minimum spindle lift is 3.5" (CST). So if you only want a 2" lift or something..... spindles wont be your cup of tea.
1b. Lift spindles will usually "push out" your wheels about .75". If you don't mind the different track width from front to back, then you're fine. If you do mind it, then you'll need to buy some 3/4" spacers for your rear.
1c. Installing front lift spindles will also require you to change out the front brake lines. Which means you'll need to bleed the front brakes.

2. I found that on a stock PreRunner, the rear sits about ~2" higher than the front. So if you go with the MaxTrac 4" lift spindle, you'll want to lift the rear about 2" to retain the rake apperance that you're use to. To achieve the 2" rear lift, you're options are to use lift blocks or upgrade to an 3-leaf AAL or a complete leaf pack (OME or All Pro, etc). Depends on your budget.....

3. If you only have 4k miles on the clock, then you won't need to replace anything else....NO need for aftermarket UCAs, no need for new coil spring hardware (strut hats, rubber bits, etc). No need for new wheel bearings assemblies, brakes components, etc.....

I love my spindle lift. Stock suspension geometry, stock-ish ride quality with a 4"+ lift. Best of both worlds.

 

Thanks XeddeX, I was looking into this set up as well..great post. Made my decision for a spindle lift alot easier.

 

Stellar response. Thanks, brother! I'm going to do it. Will go with the 3.5" spindles that you mentioned. Really not looking to go over 4.5" - even 3" is a bit much for me, but I may as well try it and see how I like it. Famous last words?

 

I had 4" Camburg spindles on my last Tacoma and they were great. I wasn't happy with being stuck at 4", but the ride was great.

 

Holy crap that CTS ones are $1k.

Also, this note at the bottom of their page kinda rubs me the wrong way:

• ADDITIONAL PARTS MAY BE REQUIRED FOR A LEVEL STANCE

LOL, ya think?!

@XeddeX did you go with MaxTrac? Recommend them?

 

i decided to go for spindle lift, you guys convinced me and sold.

 

I have Maxtrac spindles on my wife's 2010 PreRunner, purchased through @HeadStrong Off-Road. Zero installation issues; I love the lift height, overall stance, and @XeddeX's summary was on point.

 

The spindles are an excellent way to go. They will give you 4" of lift without altering ride quality or factory geometry. The biggest things to consider are that they can not be run with factory wheels unless you run spacers and if you are running aftermarket wheels you need to make sure they have the appropriate backspacing. You will also gain increased track width of about .75" on each side. I wouldn't consider those down sides just things to note.

In the rear it will all come down to what you want your finished stance to be. There are several options out there but one thing you need to take into consideration is your factory rake. If you measure from the center of the hub to the bottom of the fender you will have an idea of how you sit from front to back currently. The spindles will give you 4" up front and if you currently have a 1.5" of rake and you want to sit near level when all said and done then you will need to lift the rear approx. 2.5". Some people overlook the built in factory rake when lifting the rear and will not get the finished stance they are looking for.

We have a few different kits which have been built around the spindles so if you are interested in them just let me know.

If there is anything else that I can help you with feel free to PM me or give me a call. My number is below.