Time to replace suspension.. still undecided and need some opinions!

So I’m about to hit 80,000 miles on my 2013 and I’m starting to consider suspension options. It doesn’t really need replacement yet, but I think I’m ready to make some improvements anyways. I don’t really tow or haul heavy loads frequently, but I do haul a trailer a few times a year or haul rock/mulch.

I have already purchased some takeoff coilovers and shocks from a 2021 TRD OR. I really liked this route because I want to keep the stock ride and rake, but I’d be good with a 1” lift.

It sounds like to keep the rake, I’d have to do an AAL or full aftermarket leaf packs, which I fear will make the ride too harsh. I’ve considered SumoSprings, but it sounds hit and miss on if I’ll actually get any lift out of it.

My other option is to go with Bilstein 4600’s and just replace/improve the shocks. I don’t really load my truck down, so I assume my OEM leafs are good for now, but I don’t know how much longer they’ll last.

 

I did the 3rd gen suspension with icon progressive aal and love it. The ride is great and I get zero rub. I also added 1/4" spacers up front to level it out.

 

That’s good to hear. That is the AAL I was looking at. How long have you had it on? Does it squeak? I’ve read some people saying that AAL’s don’t really last long, but maybe I should quit worrying about that haha.

 

Why don’t you just try some Bilstein 4600’s first. Then If it’s not an improvement you could take the next step.

 

I ended up going with OME coils, custom springs (made local), and 4600s. I did it at 220k miles. What a difference it made. My truck drives like it rolled off the showroom floor with 270k on her. I also tackled Blackbear and Imogene pass with ease. After about 3 months I ended up with about a 3/4" lift. I recommend if you don't tow or carry weight and no lift. Make sure to shop around and order top caps.

 

I think thats cool that 2nd gen suspension parts fits a 3rd gen and vice versa. On my first gen I ended doing bilstein 5100 front and rears with OME springs and AAL. The truck handles so much better with less body roll and looks really good sitting leveled.

 

Just ordered trd oem shocks all around, the new ones don't come w a new bolt unfortunately, anyone know where to buy the bolts?

 

Interesting.. sounds nice! What is the advantage of going with custom built leaf packs over something like Icon or Deaver? And what kind of shop makes them? Honestly I don’t know that I’d have a shop around me..

 

I have been going to a place called Plattsburgh Spring for about 20 years. I have a tendency to snap the factory ones in cold weather. I am not sure if they have a supplier for parts but they build them as you spec them. For me it was a factory ride but still be able to haul drywall buckets on crappy mountain roads.

 

If you are good with OEM leafs today suggest keep it simple and go that route. If they ever sag then just pick up a pair of take-offs of new factory leafs from a lift.

I have sumo springs on my truck to replace my factory bump stops. They work great as they add support (engage as a spring) when loaded. They are not for providing static lift - that’s what leaf springs / AAL are for.

If they are too tall for your factory truck and cause lift in your factory condition then just trim the top donut off the sumo spring.

For your want of support when hauling sumo springs are a great option.