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Suspension, rims & tires input requested

Discussion in '4th Gen 4Runners (2003-2009)' started by dearthvader, Jan 10, 2019.

  1. Jan 10, 2019 at 9:02 PM
    #1
    dearthvader

    dearthvader [OP] New Member

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    Josh
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    2003 4Runner V8 4WD
    I recently purchased a 1 owner 2003 4th gen V8 4WD with only 137K miles. I'm surprised by how well it was maintained by its previous owner. My goal is to give it a reasonable lift, upgrade rims & tires and install an ARB or Shrockworks bumper as I really like the appearance.

    Unfortunately my head is spinning from all of the information I've found through reading hundreds of forum posts. I've seen everything from using lift spacers to FJ springs to OME lifts and finally $4,000+ lifts! My primary use will be driving on pavement and very little off road driving therefore I'm not very concerned about off-road performance as much as I would like to maintain a pleasant feel on the street while achieving approximately 2.5 inches of lift. The kit I've seen most commonly is the complete OME kit for around $900. I'm certainly willing to pay for this kit but I'm concerned as many people seem to think the ride is significantly stiffer and more 'jolting' due to the stiffness of the springs.

    Since I'm not concerned about off-road performance are the Bilstein 5100 ride adjustable front shocks paired with FJ springs or perhaps Wheelers T1 coils over the Bilsteins in the front and T13 coils paired with Bilstein shocks sufficient? The most important variable seems to be the weight of the front bumper. Are the Bilstein height adjustable shocks along with some decent springs enough to achieve the lift I want while maintaining comfortable on road performance?

    Lastly, I would like to use a 285 or 275 width tire. I really like the look of the TRD rims, the cost is reasonable and they are hub centric. I know the rims aren't rated for a 285 tire but I've heard a 285 will still work? Any experience with this combo? Have you guys found spaces necessary for a 285 tire?

    I've attached some pics that generally demonstrate the look I would like to achieve. I have the tools and know how necessary to perform the upgrades myself therefor potential costs are reduced.

    Thanks in advance for any replies.40252620_1699798756754988_9147992839664173056_n.jpg

    d_749.jpg d_752.jpg
     
    JDog likes this.
  2. Jan 11, 2019 at 1:55 PM
    #2
    MattAK

    MattAK Headin' for the hills

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    Matt
    Utah
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    2019 Tundra SR5 dbl cab white
    We just installed a Dobinsons 2.5" kit on my dad's '06 V8 and I'm getting a similar setup from them for my '08 V8. So far we've been impressed with the ride quality on road. I'd say it's very similar to the Bilstein's I had on my 5th gen. I've considered OME stuff in the past for my 3rd and 5th gens but stayed away for the same stiffness reasons you mentioned. We were worried that the Dobinsons setup would be stiff as well since they're also an Australian company but we've been pleasantly surprised so far. Give them a look, we dealt with their US rep Mike directly via email and he was super helpful.
     
    WallyT4R likes this.
  3. Jan 11, 2019 at 2:00 PM
    #3
    Sickboy

    Sickboy New Member

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    Kevin
    Fort Wayne, IN
    Vehicle:
    2019 4 Runner TRD Off Road Premium
    3/1.5 ToyTec Leveling kit, TRD Pro front/rear valances, CBI rock sliders (on order), BFG All Terrain TA KO 285/70/17, 40% windshield tint, 35% side window tint, ceramic coated exterior, spydertrax spacers, Adjustable UCA’s, Throttle Command, blue LED interior lights, S&B CAI, emblem blackout kit
    I was in the same boat as you not too long ago. And like you, won’t be doing much, if any off roading, mostly wanted mods for aesthetics. I ended up with a 3”/1.5” leveling kit with adjustable UCA’s and 285/70 tires to complete the lift. I went through ToyTec and so far completely satisfied. I’m not expert by any means, just sharing my experience. Congrats on your purchase....I love the earlier gens as much as the new ones!
     
    SlvrSlug likes this.
  4. Jan 15, 2019 at 9:48 AM
    #4
    blackoutt

    blackoutt New Member

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    Southern IN
    Vehicle:
    2007 4Runner Limited V8
    Adventure Build
    Another vote for Dobinson suspension. I did bilstein 5100 originally and wasn't impressed so I went to full Fox setup but I think I would have been happy with Dobinson as their rear springs I have now are awesome. They have plenty of spring options to mix and match for height, load, and ride characteristics so you can have it exactly how you want.

    Unsure about stock TRD wheels and 285's most people run the FN wheel knockoffs that are wider and can run a 285 no problem.
     
    Toyojay and WallyT4R like this.
  5. Jan 15, 2019 at 7:17 PM
    #5
    dearthvader

    dearthvader [OP] New Member

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    Thanks so much for the input. I'll be looking more extensively into the Dobinson suspension as it seems they have a lot of options.
     
  6. Jan 18, 2019 at 9:20 AM
    #6
    Tony Ironsides

    Tony Ironsides New Member

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    Zachary
    Vehicle:
    04 Sport V8 4WD
    2.5" Dobinsons Springs/struts up front, .5" Dobinsons Spring/Shocks in rear; 255/80R17 Cooper STMAXX
    You should definitely check out Dobinsons. I installed a 2.5" Front and .5" rear kit from them and am very happy with ride quality on and off-road. It was a bit stiff from the get-go but I couldnt be happier now that the suspension has broken in a bit. Be patient with them, it took 6 weeks to get my parts but was totally worth the wait.
     
  7. Jan 18, 2019 at 1:22 PM
    #7
    MattAK

    MattAK Headin' for the hills

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    Matt
    Utah
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    2019 Tundra SR5 dbl cab white
    I'm currently waiting for them to make more black shocks. ETA is March. :annoyed:
     
  8. Oct 12, 2019 at 12:32 PM
    #8
    15eagle

    15eagle New Member

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    Hi everyone, I am looking for comments regarding the rear bumper from Shrockworks. anybody installed this item?
     
  9. Oct 17, 2019 at 9:59 AM
    #9
    JDog

    JDog New Member

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    John
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    2007 SR5 4WD V6 Shadow Grey T4R
    Has anyone looked at the Ironman 4x4 setup for our 4th Gens? They look good and are having a sale right now. My 07 has the original suspension on it so I know it needs to all (shocks & coils) be replaced. I figure while I'm doing it, I might as well get a little lift for leveling purposes. I don't want to have to mess with the upper control arms. I'm also not going off road or adding any weight like bumpers so I don't want to get too stiff of a ride. I'm planning on doing the sway bar bushings as well. AND, I don't want to spend much $$! That's not asking too much is it?? ;-)
     
  10. Nov 24, 2019 at 8:18 AM
    #10
    themixr

    themixr New Member

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    06 4Runner
    I did the bilstein 6112 up front with their springs, and the 5160’s out back with their springs, I’m running 285’s on method grid wheels, zero issues so far, and not stiff in the least. Bilstein has the heavier spring upgrade for your application as well.
     

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