I picked up my 86 4runner (IFS) 2 monts ago with a saggy rear end. The only thing I've done to it so far is putting on a set of 31" tires. I'm looking to add a mild lift to it that will also make it a little more off-road capable but not too harsh of a ride. I'm looking to spend $400, but if I must I'd go up to $500. Here's what I came up with so far.

Front, 1.5" lift
-1.5" BJ Spacers $110
-Energy Supsension low profile bumpstops (compression) $25
-not looking to crank the T-bars
Total $135

Rear (the part I'm not sure on)
Option 1.Downey 2" or 3" lift leafs $200
Option 2.Skyjacker 2"-2.5" lift AAL kit $78
Option 3. Pro-Comp 1.5"-2.5" lift AAL kit $32
Option 4. New set of stock leafs plus shackles
I'd use edlebrock shocks ($20) with which ever I choose, they are good for up to 4" of lift

Then after it all I have to get it aligned. $50


Would there be any issues if I only lift the front 1.5" while lifting the rear a whole 3"? Which option would make my 4runner more capable on a trail? Thinking about it, the better the rear articulates, the more likely my front wheels would stay on the ground. Thanks


Patrick

 

For the Downey springs, which i have, you want the 3" for the 4runner. The 2 inch will be too short. The 3 inch lift the rear of the 4 runner the same amount as the 2 inch lift the pick ups.

Many run the AAL's, but i personally think they are way too stiff. Stock leafs plus shackles will not match up with your front unless you get enormous shackles, which could affect driveline angle adversely.

A note on the downey's. I have bent my springs. If you wheel hard, they aren't the best option. They still work, but some of the lift is gone because they are bent backwards at the front, so i've lost ride height and down travel.

None of these options will make you radically more capable than the others. They will all flex about the same, and lift alone rarely corelates to cabability on the trail. Non-internet cool things like lockers and gears do that. And in reality, you will be getting very minimal lift from these set ups, these will simply level out your truck.

If you want lift, get a bracket system.

 

hhmm, I really need to lift the rear since it's sagging so bad, but I'd considering putting the BJ spacers on hold and getting an aussie locker for now. Thanks for the reply.

Patrick
86 4runner

 

I bumped this to ask the consensus on using low profile upper arm stops with the BJ spacers. Yea or Nay?

 

Here's what I'd do. Check Craigs list, find a nice lift for 200-400 then search for springs off an old chevy that'd fit your Toy. Enjoy!!!

 

Nay. You risk CV binding.

Frank

 

Dude I'm selling a complete box front from skyjacker and a complete rear that is a trail gear I bought from wabfab offroad. It is a fantastic ride and extremly flexable offroad. It has never been on the trail since I put the lift on. make you a great deal. let me know.
Chandler

 

Abort, abort, abort! Low pro lower arm stops are good. Low pro uppers eat CV's.