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Leveling '16 TE - Help

Discussion in '5th Gen 4Runners (2010-2024)' started by bobmobile, Apr 6, 2021.

  1. Apr 6, 2021 at 3:51 PM
    #1
    bobmobile

    bobmobile [OP] New Member

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    Long time listener, first time caller.
    I've got a 16 Trail Edition, non-KDSS, and I'm wanting to get a leveling kit. It's all stock. I'm considering the Bilstein 5100. But, are these shocks an upgrade over the stock shocks? Would it be better/advisable to just use a spacer setup with stock shocks? I'm not necessarily looking for new coils too.
    I wouldn't mind a slight lift in the back, maybe an inch or two, but mainly just looking to cure low sitting front to match the back and be able to accommodate smaller 33-inch tires in the future.
    Also, If I were to go with the Bilstein 5100 setup, what all parts would I need? I'd hate to get started to realize I don't have everything.
    Thanks in advance!
     
  2. Apr 6, 2021 at 4:30 PM
    #2
    Mtbpsych

    Mtbpsych New Member

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    Spacers or 5100 work. 5100 would probably be a better fit, all you need is the shocks and coils unless you’re using the stock ones. Lots of threads on here about leveling!
     
    Last edited: Apr 6, 2021
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  3. Apr 6, 2021 at 5:07 PM
    #3
    SlvrSlug

    SlvrSlug Slightly bent.

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    Welcome to the forum.
     
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  4. Apr 6, 2021 at 9:45 PM
    #4
    4Runner170V

    4Runner170V New Member

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    SSO Slimline Bumper w/Smittybilt X2O 10K Winch FOX 2.5 Front, 2.0 Rear/ICON UCA/OME Rear Spring 33X12.50R17 DRIFTA Drawer System ARB Awning APS Side Steps ICS Fab. Center Console Mount LFD Roof Rack Cross Bar Dual Battery System HAM/GMRS Mobile Radio
    I just saw 16 trail right next to me tonight. at the light, we talked. I have spacer level/lift which will be upgraded to suspension level/lift in next 60 days. He had 5100 level/lift. both of us had exactly same level height. both of us had 285-70/17. I am sure that 5100 rides better...
     
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  5. Apr 8, 2021 at 8:20 AM
    #5
    koukimonster

    koukimonster DYNO4

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    I wouldn't say that one rides better than the other if they both use the stock springs, at least on the street. That's my opinion.

    But they are different. 5100's are digressive an the OE Tokicos are more progressive.

    Using a small spacer above the front coil-over assembly for a small lift does have it's disadvantages, but it's not like stock springs on 5100's are the bees knees or anything.

    I'd get whichever one fits the budget more. If your OE shocks are still in good condition, the spacer will cost far less and be much easier to install. I'd only suggest no spacer if you go off-road.
     
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  6. Apr 8, 2021 at 10:33 AM
    #6
    bobmobile

    bobmobile [OP] New Member

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    I'd like to be able to do some off-road driving. It's mostly a daily driver, though. Problem right now is I can't find the 5100 or the Eibach (which I'm also now considering) in stock anywhere. Called Eibach about availability and they don't expect the stage 1 kit to be available until June. I like it because they're kit is only slightly more expensive but includes new springs all around.
     
  7. Apr 8, 2021 at 1:07 PM
    #7
    koukimonster

    koukimonster DYNO4

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    Heard. However the Eibach kit does drastically raise the front end, which comes with other concerns. Aftermarket UCA's are typically recommended with a lift as high as the Eibach springs provide.

    I believe Wheeler's Off Road has the Eibach shocks (not kit) in stock. But beware if you have them assemble anything, their intall tech made an error on my assemblies and their recourse was less than desirable..

    As long as your off-road driving is mostly modest or slow speeds on gravel, and SLOW crawling over small obstacles, a spacer that isn't huge shouldn't cause a problem.
     
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  8. Apr 8, 2021 at 1:24 PM
    #8
    bobmobile

    bobmobile [OP] New Member

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    If I decide to go with a spacer setup for now, is there any you'd recommend?
     
  9. Apr 8, 2021 at 1:29 PM
    #9
    koukimonster

    koukimonster DYNO4

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    I'd start by seeing what Toytec offers, as well as Wheeler's Off Road. Also look into Cornfed. If it was me, I'd be looking at a 1/2" spacer, but beware, that amount of lift up front isn't going to exactly transform the way the truck looks. It's a small inexpensive mod, like $75, though. Expect around a 1" lift up front from the spacer. It will be noticeable.

    If you want an overall lift for a bigger look, and especially if you plan on getting bigger tires, I'd look into 4 shocks and 4 springs, which will cost around $700+. The Eibach kit is a great one if you like the look. It's too level for my tastes. Like I said, though, going as tall as the Eibach kit provides, you are at least in the department of alignment issues with the stock UCA's. That said, about 50% of people that install the Eibach kit keep their stock UCA's, and seem happy/OK with it.
     
  10. Apr 8, 2021 at 1:34 PM
    #10
    bobmobile

    bobmobile [OP] New Member

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    Eventually I'd like bigger tires, and was thinking about stimulating the economy a bit and getting the shocks and springs. But, as mentioned before, availability seems limited. My main priority at the moment is getting that front end evened up with the back. It bothers me more and more each time I walk out and see that nose pointing down. I've always liked Bilstein's and figured I'd be happy with the 5100.
     

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