Question on FJ Struts on 04 4Runner

I have extensively read the sticky on the swap ( ) and the results from those that have done the swap ( ) to get familiar with this process.

All the information so far I have read has been excellent, the sticky basically answered all of my questions. I am in somewhat of a unique situation that I have no seen discussed yet, and hoping someone has done something similar so I can see if I need to purchase spacers.

On my 04 4Runner SR5 V6 2WD I will be putting on the OEM FJ Cruiser shock and spring (from a 08 FJ Cruiser 4x4) but leaving the rear springs alone. From the sticky, it was recommended to add a 1/4in spacer ( ) to level the truck, however since I am leaving the rear springs alone and only replacing the front struts with the FJ struts, would I need the spacer as well? I like level or a little bit of rake, just afraid if I am not changing the rear springs that the 1/4 spacer will make it look like it has a somewhat of a Carolina Squat.

Anyone have any pics of a V6 2WD with this setup they can share?

Thanks!

 

Im pretty sure the 1/4" spacer is intended to be installed on drivers side only, to correct for the lean ever 4runner has due to the driver+battery+fuel tank all being on one side (aka heavy stuff). So it shouldnt really affect you leveling out front to back, but side to side.

 

The struts (from my understanding and reading) already have the drivers side 1/4 higher and stiffer spring to compensate for that. The 1/4in spacer for the V6 (1/2in for V8) is to bring the front end up just a tad. Again, could be totally wrong but I read this on the internet, so it must be true

 

Its all true, just some info is more true than others haha
Id be rather suspect of having different spring rates/stiffness just to counter lean. Your rig is going to react very interestingly side to side if thats the case...

 

The springs are slightly stiffer on the driver side from the factory and will have zero effect on ride quality or handling. Tacoma front struts can be used for the same purpose and also come stiffer on the driver side to compensate for the gas tank+driver+battery all being on that side.

 

IMO you're making a mistake not buying rear springs. They're not expensive and springs are the real foundation of a suspension. All the $2K Fox shocks in the world won't fix the ride if the springs are shot. You don't mention your mileage but it's likely well over 100K on an '04 so you're going to be riding around on 20+ year old metal that's carried a 4500 lb. SUV the equivalent at least 4+ times around the planet. Your call but it solves your problem too. I was glad I replaced mine all around. The suspension post linked in my sig may be helpful.

 

I agree with you, the rear needs replacing (180K on original shocks and springs) however have not found a source for some low mileage used springs yet.

 

Rockauto.com has new replacement coil springs for the rear - https://www.rockauto.com/en/moreinf...UqlrXwnP/gv0yjYGDmACJO7D6/QzkH9wjCP+RgLozHAN3

 

Interesting, never thought of going with aftermarket shocks. For $70 it’s a no brainer for the pair.

Probably could get some FJ replacement springs and get that extra half inch in the rear of the car.

 

Yes, they will do that. I got a set of new rear FJ coils for a 2007 from rockouto.com for $70 a couple years back.

 

Do you recall which brand you went with? I am debating buying some new from rockauto or just getting some oem used ones

 

I purchased a set of Moog from Rockauto, they seemed to lift my 4R rear end about half an inch which told me the old springs were worn out.

https://www.rockauto.com/en/moreinf...dUyZf5vYVisviUUD4IhIlMuogfvSTs+hO6uZ/Z4XJDmCI

 

Were they pretty much a direct replacement or did you have any fitment issues? Those look like a good option.

 

Yup direct replacement, take the old ones out, move the rubber bump stop over to the new spring, put the new one on and line it up as you lift the axle. I replaced the shocks and my sway bar bushings at the same time, and it took me about an hour and half by myself. Pretty simple and straight forward to do. My 4R spent its whole life in Texas so rust is nonexistent, however an impact still made this so much easier to do.