4Peanut

Newbie here. First post as a Yotatech member. I've been around the different forums here for a few weeks, and while there is a lot of information regarding larger tires and different suspension lift options, I feel compelled to ask my specific questions (thanks for bearing with me).

Will 285/75R16's fit a stock 1996 4Runner SR5 4WD on factory 16" alloys with factory running boards without any lift?
If I do need a little lift, and lift itself is the only requirement, are Cornfed spacers the way to go?
Aside from the decreased suspension travel, what other downsides or safety concerns are there with the spacers on an otherwise stock daily-driver?
How much does a spring compression tool cost?

Thanks to everyone who makes this an informative and entertaining site.

TDiddy

285's will mount on the rims just fine, but you will have a bunch of rubbing issues without any lift. IMO spacers and/or a body lift would be the best solution.

Dr. Zhivago

Ditto on what Tom said regarding the tires not fitting without some lift. However, and this is a personal choice and opinion, I'm not a big fan of spacers per se. But, LOTS of people run them and seem to love them. If all you want is bigger tires and a tougher stance, then Cornfed would be an excellent choice for spacers. You should get upgraded shocks while you're at it.

If you have an Autozone near you, they have a tool loaning program whereby you can borrow spring compressors from them with a small refundable deposit that you get back when you return the tools.

Hope this helps.
G

4Peanut

Thanks for the input TDiddy and Dr. Zhivago.

So, if I lift it 2", 285/75R16's will fit without any rubbing? Will the factory running boards be a problem? I do like the look with the boards removed as some of done here, but my wife already needs them to climb in let alone with 2" of lift.

Does anyone have a picture of a 3rd Gen, with 285/75R16's and 2" (Cornfed) spacers? I've seen a lot of other variations here (15's, different shocks/springs, larger spacers, etc.) and do realize my set-up may not be a very common one.

Thanks again.

rimpainter.com

Another option, albeit cheaper, is to BL. That will run you about $175 since you have a 96. With a 1.5" lift you should be able to stuff 285/75's under there.

4cedRunner

Do you have fender flares? If so removing them will help to fit a bigger tire, also you might need to use a mallet to flatten out your body seam and also possibly trim some plastic from the inner fender well. I agree that if all you want is looks then a cornfed spacer or the like is your best choice. But OME stuff is really inexpensive and works great. Plus if you ever do have to use your truck at least it will perform. Think of spacers as those chest implants for men, you look toguh but if somebody asked you to help move a heavy piano then you wouldn't look so tough. Where as if you do it right with real strength you look and are capable of performing. bad analagy but you get the idea.

rimpainter.com

That would apply to "body" lifts too right?

Say, could you post the link for those implants? Dont tell anyone I asked!

4Peanut

Thanks 4cedRunner, I'm a big analogy fan.

If I do opt for new suspension components, am I just buying longer shocks, or do I need a new shock/spring package? Would either of these option require a limiting strap?

I'm assuming the install is similar to the steps outlined here for the spacer install.

jacksonpt

The shocks will be longer, but the springs are what matter. That's where you'll get your lift. If you are only doing the lift so you can fit the tires, look into a body lift. Very cheap, relatively easy to install, and it won't affect the ride since you're keeping the stock suspension. Anytime you lift a rig with stiffer springs, the ride with stiffen up a bit. Some like the stiffer ride, some don't.

If all you're doing is a basic 2-3" suspension lift, you shouldn't need limiting straps. ((someone correct me if I'm wrong))

waskillywabbit

iTrader: (-1)

The cheapest IMO is a body lift. I did a 2" RB body lift and cleared 285s easy with only minimal rubbing on stuff and full turn. I now also have an OME lift so I certainly have no issues. Check out my website write-ups page for specifics.

Good luck!

saletel

where in MD are you located? i'm located in Columbia / Frostburg (at school). i just put 285/75/16s on my lifted 4runner.